I'm attempting to make a fairly simple database that allows the client to drop in images throughout the printer-friendly layout for his reports. But if the container field is empty, it does not shrink or slide. This seems to be the same in FM version 5 on up. Mac or Windows. And it's driving me a little batty because other FM databases I've seen have been able to either do this or use some trick to get it done.

I've tried making a test layout to avoid any complications, but the problem remains.

Text Field

Empty Container Field

Text Field #2

Sliding up based on all above and shrinking enclosing part.

Can't get this to work on 7 or any relatively recent version.

What's the trick? I've been using FileMaker since the 3.0 days, but for fairly simple DBs for work, and I have this strange feeling I'm either doing something stupid or just unaware of the necessary work around.

Please help! The last post I could find on this was "Sliding Containers #52956 - Tue Dec 17 2002" where one of the replies was:

"It's strange that your empty container fields don't shrink. Are you sure that they are completely empty, and that you don't have something else on the layout that is preventing shrinking and sliding? Did you remember to check the 'reduce size of enclosing part' option?"

Well it's empty, and it doesn't shrink... I thought containers just didn't work that way until I saw this post.

- Booper

Interesting... figured it out... I think (with a little help from an IRC FMPro Guru).

The container's graphic format must be aligned to the top for it to work. In a way this makes sense... but still seems a bit odd.

The default is "Centered" for the alignment settings.

Rereading the FM Help file, I think maybe they should have mentioned it isn't only the "text" you have to align for those of us being dopey:

"1. In Layout mode, select and align fields and text to each other based on how you want objects to slide.

For fields and text arranged horizontally that you want to slide left, align their top edges and choose Format menu > Align Text > Left.

For fields and text arranged vertically that you want to slide up, choose Format menu > Align Text > Top."

Any additional tips or wisdom appreciated, but I think I figured it out. If nothing else, maybe help out some other novices.

- Booper