To craft your cover using Adobe InDesign, start by generating a custom document.
Retrieve the dimensions of your cover file by opening the PDF from your Project Center in Acrobat Reader (or Pro). Hover your mouse over the bottom left corner, and note the dimensions displayed in the pop-up box. These dimensions are specific to each cover, and changes in page count may affect them.
Ensure your page count is set before finalizing your design. For example, in the case of a US Trade softcover with 200 pages, the document size is 12.73” x 9.25”. Record these dimensions for your cover.
A quick check: if "Facing Pages" is selected, unselect it. Confirm that all values under "Bleed and Slug" are set to "0", and set "Intent" to "Print".
If you're not viewing dimensions in inches, access InDesign Preferences (Edit>Preferences for Windows/InDesign>Preferences for Mac), choose Units & Increments, and set both Horizontal and Vertical to Inches. Under "Page Size," input the values obtained from your Acrobat document. Click OK. Create a Rectangular Frame covering the entire project area.
Use the Place command (File>Place) to insert the Cover template PDF into your document. Ensure proper alignment using the direct selection tool. Lock this layer and commence your artwork. Consider reducing the opacity of the template layer if needed for better visibility.
Remember to save your work! Upon completion, hide the template guide layer, and export a PDF (PDF/X4:2008 or earlier). Verify that your PDF matches the original PDF dimensions in Acrobat through an A/B comparison before uploading. If they align, your online proof should accurately reflect your design (provided there are no alterations to your page count).
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