Engraved fields in alternating color portal

[Zulu]

Is there a way to put engraved fields in an alternating color portal? When I try, all the fields are the layout background color, even the ones in the alternate rows. I tried making the fields transparent, but then the engraving goes away...

[LaRetta]

Hi Zulu,

There is only one way that I know of ... make your fields transparent but create lines to surround your fields. In this way, the center (field itself) could remain transparent.

Use the box (rectangle) tool instead of lines. Draw a horizontal rectangle then change it to 3 px high and set Effects to engraved. Duplicate it for the top. Duplicate again and Arrange > Rotate for the sizes. Tedious.

I have also seen some graphics with transparent centers (made similarly to above) but they've allowed resizing and maintain their consistent look much better. Macs probably have a great edge here.

I suppose you could also leave your fields transparent and engrave the portal instead. Make the portal barely wide enough for one field (same with height). Then duplicate your portal (and fields) over and over (however many fields you have, as long as they are only one row). Put a different field in each portal - if lined properly they will match row for row. Portal scroll will muddy the look and confuse Users if they scroll one portal and the other portal columns do not scroll to keep matched. I'd only consider this if I could remove the scroll.

Sorry to bring (probable) bad news ... but you might try the line/rectangle idea. It depends upon how important it is to you. Maybe just a rectangle top and bottom would be enough to give enough of an illusion.

LaRetta