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Quickstart for InDesign

Updated

With the BarcodeMaker plug-in installed, barcodes are created and managed through the PatternMaker palette in Adobe InDesign. Follow these steps to add your first barcode:

Step 1: Install the Plug-ins

Download the installer here. After you install, you’ll get two plug-ins:

  • BarcodeMaker

  • PatternMaker

-> The PatternMaker palette is where you’ll create and adjust barcodes.

Step 2: Launch InDesign and Open a Document

Open the document where you want your barcode to appear.

Step 3: Select a Frame

A frame must be selected before you can apply a barcode.

  • You can draw a new empty frame, or select an existing one.

Step 4: Open the PatternMaker Palette

If the palette isn’t visible, go to:
Window > PatternMaker

Step 5: Apply a Barcode

  1. From the PatternMaker popup menu, choose the barcode type you want.

  2. Click the Apply Pattern button.

The selected frame will update with your barcode.

Step 6: Adjust Barcode Options

The PatternMaker palette changes depending on the barcode you’ve applied.

  • Example:

    • UPC-E has different options than DataMatrix.

Experiment with the available options in the palette. Each time you make a change, the barcode updates instantly on the page.

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