Web Graphic Design Ideas using Macromedia Fireworks

Graphics Editor: Macromedia Fireworks 4 or above
Recommended: Macromedia Fireworks 8

Curves

One neat graphic design idea is to use curves. Look at the example below. You will see how we can step by step create a uniform curve.

Step 1: Create a rectangle and select one of its points using the sub-selection tool (white arrow) [Fireworks might tell you that the object is going to be ungrouped, click okay]. Step 2: Taking the pen tool place a point on the bottom line of the rectangle and drag (click+drag). The curve handles of the point will appear. Release the click. Step 3: To adjust the curve, just click the point just created and adjust the curve by clicking and dragging either of the curve handles.

Image Feathering While using pictures in designing we often don't require certain parts of a picture to be seen, or else, just need a particular part of a picture. For this we can use the Feather effect of Macromedia Fireworks. Basically feather removes the otherwise jagged finish to an edited image by giving it a fading in pixel radius. This cool effect makes your pictures stand out and look really professional.

Drop Shadow

Drop-Shadow is a Graphic Effect found in the Effects Panel of the Properties Window. To give a drop shadow to any graphic element:

• Select the graphic and click the (+) button under Effects.
• In the list of options go to Shadow and Glow > Drop Shadow and the shadow appears.
• In the shadow properties the default value for distance is 7 px and softness is 4. We usually give distance as 2 px and softness as 5 for a soft shadow effect (example 1) and distance as 3 px and softness as 4 for a crisp shadow effect (example 2).

Paste Inside

You can paste any graphic (image or vector) inside a vector shape, so that it appears to be inside it. All you need to do is:

• Place the graphic over the vector shape.
• Selecting only the graphic press Ctrl+x (cut it).
• Now select the vector shape and press Ctrl+Shift+v (paste inside).
• We recommend that the vector shape be given a stroke (outline) and a shadow using the drop-shadow effect so that the overall look is stunning.

Advanced Vector Shapes

Macromedia MX 2004 has come out with a stunning range of advanced vector shapes. Take a look at some of the examples below (pie, rounded rectangle, advanced polygon, spiral, advanced star and many more).

Example 2: This example uses Rollover Images, Vector Shapes, Paste Inside, Drop Shadow

We love the fact that these auto shapes have special handles (the yellow points) that help change their properties proportionally (This overcomes the difficulty of changing the dimensions of a rounded rectangle in Fireworks 4 after the corners have been set).

Take a look at the Star Auto Shape vector shown on your left. Create a similar one in Fireworks MX 2004 and try dragging the yellow property handles. Tip: You can create advanced shapes like the star shown in example 2, clove like shapes, flower shapes, etc. when just experimenting with this tool. Have Fun!

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