Document window layout
The document window is where you will add shapes to the virtual paper. In default mode it looks like paper, with a shadow border. But you can change this, trhough the menu option [x] No borders instead of [x] Print Layout.
Adding shapes to the document
You can select a shape type and then click and drag in the window to create a rectangle in which the shape will fit. In the example below we chose a Rounded Rectangle.
Moving, resizing and rotating shapes
Once you have added your shape you can drag it to move it and drag the rotation handle to rotate it.
Tip: You can move in only orthogonal (square) direction by holding down the [SHIFT] key.
Multi-selecting shapes
It is possible to select more than one shape and then work on the selected group of shapes (selection). There are two methods:
| 1. | Click a shape, then hold down [shift] and click another.
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| 2. | Drag a window around the shapes you want to select.
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See also Multiple Selections for more detailed information.
Copying and pasting shapes
It is very easy to copy and paste shapes. Just use the standard Windows shortcut keys (Ctrl-C for Copy and Ctrl-V for paste). The copy/paste works on the selection so you can copy and paste multiple shapes at one time. You can even copy/paste across different applications that use DtpDocuments!
Helpers
Helpers are visible items that help you with the editing task but do not show up in the final printed result. DtpDocuments has a number of helpers available, see below. You can set these helpers through the view menu.
Dots
Grid
Dots and Grid use a gridsize and a color which can be configured in the Document and Page panels.
Pattern
Pattern is very suitable when working with semi-transparent shapes. The checker-pattern will show through the semi-transparent parts, thus visualizing them.