Blurb Book Creator and Primary Text Frames

[forasong]

When I go through the document setup process using the Blurb Book Creator plugin, it does not give me an option to turn on Primary Text Frames (on Parent pages). The inDesign document that is then created does not have Primary Text Frames nor can I check that box in Document Setup because it is grayed out. I tried creating a new inDesign document and checking the box for Primary Text Frames--which gives me the function I'm seeking--but then when I try to link that document using the Blurb Book Creator, the resulting document does not have the non-printing first page, bleed lines, etc. How do I resolve this and get an Blurb plugin inDesign document with all of the Blurb elements (non-printing first page, bleed, etc) and also have the ability to have Primary Text Frames on Parent pages?

[James Gifford—NitroPress]

Well, to be honest, I'd start by deleting the plug in. IMVHO, it brings nothing to the book design process. Since you already have InDesign, and evidently some acquired understanding and skill... just do your own design and layout, without unnecessary training wheels.

I suppose there's a direct answer as well, but I have no clue as where the fix might lie.

[forasong]

James, thanks for your input. You're correct, the plugin brings nothing to the design process, but it is where I select paper quality, book cover, etc., and it does its own pre-flight check. I was doing my own design and layout, it's just with the plugin I wasn't able to select the Primary Text Frames option--it was grayed out. But I found the answer, and Joel linked to it as well. Thanks again.

[James Gifford—NitroPress]

Okay; all good. I looked over what the ID plugin brings and I guess it's useful, but I don't see anything that's actually essential if you have basic design-for-print skills and are already working in a pro tool like InDesign. As long as the tool isn't getting the in way, I guess it's a matter of choice.

But I did look at Blurb's production prices, and, uh... ouch. For that cost, they should be doing all the work and giving you a foot massage... IMHO.

[Joel Cherney · Accepted solution]

I've never used Blurb, and I have never created a document with a primary text frame, so I am only guessing, here. But I think this thread has an answer from Frans detailing exactly how to make a primary text frame on the master page, not using the New Document dialog.

[forasong]

Joel, thanks for the link. I had alrady discovered that on my own, and it is the solution I was looking for. Thanks again!