Create layout templates to re-use

[Budweiser]

Is it possible to create your own templates for layouts in Filemaker?

I have a standard look-and-feel for each layout in my database and would like to define it in one place and use it as a template for all layouts. Much like the 'Master' works in Powerpoint.

[spb]

I don't think it's directly possible, but I get this job done by designing & tweaking out a "master" layout, that is, one that contains most elements I'll be needing on other layouts. Then, when I need to make a new matching layout, I start by duplicating the master, renaming it, then alter fields & buttons as needed.

You can also get friendly with the object size palette in layout mode. I immediately switch this to pixels from inches, but whatever works. You can go to a layout and select & copy a dozen elements. Take note of the position of this group in the settings in the object size palette. Go to your new layout and paste. While they are still selected, enter the pixel settings for the upper left corner in this palette and they will all snap exactly into position.

Once you get used to using these two techniques, you can make some pretty complexlayouts that precisely match other layout pretty quickly.

(Note: these are FM 6 techniques, I'm sure the basic procedure is the same in 7, but there may be wrinkles I'm not aware of.)

Steve Brown