Library: Creative Design

Jumpstart your next project with pre-made templates

It's always nice to start out with a work area that's set up just the way you like it. In Illustrator, you can get that if you modify the startup files, but typically no one setup is ideal for all work situations. However, Adobe has remedied this situation by giving you the ability to create templates in Illustrator. If you're consistently performing the same type of work, such as laying out a monthly newsletter, you may benefit from Illustrator's template feature. Instead of having to change Illustrator's startup files, you can build specific templates to accommodate a variety of projects. We'll show you the steps required to create your own and/or use Illustrator's free templates.

Create a template
Making a template involves setting up a document the way you want it and then saving it as a template file. We'll get you started.

To create and save a template:
1. Open a new document.
2. Set up your document as you desire, including...