Print merge help

[Patrick Licata]

Hello all,
I am trying to use print merge for adding names to trophy plates. Is there a step to do that will automatically condense the length of a name that is too long?
This is my process: Set the plate size to .75 x 2.75, type my text, set where the merge will go, then merge the names. I then set #across and #down and merge. But if I have a long name it cuts it off.
What step am I missing??
Corel X3 by the way.
Thanks to everyone for the great info on this forum:)

[Mike Null]

Patrick

There have been some recent threads on this topic. Try a search and I'm sure you'll find the answer.

[Roy Brewer]

Is there a step to do that will automatically condense the length of a name that is too long?Patrick,
The short answer is "no."

The long answers would include:
1. There are Corel "add in" programs that will(rather pricey).
2. Many use the software they use on their mechanical engraver(all will automatically handle the "condense").
3. Find your longest name and use it (condensed) in your template.
4. X4(only): Merge to new document and manually go through the plates and condense as necessary.

[Shaddy Dedmore]

Not sure if this will work to avoid Print Merge all together, but my set of macros (http://www.shaddysengraving.com/laser/SerialNamer.gms) will condense text to fit a text box that has a given size, while importing data from a text file, excel sheet or access database.

Just make sure the "Reduce Font if Overrun" box is checked.

look at my tutorial (http://www.shaddysengraving.com/laser/nametagcreator/)for another prog I made for help with most of my macros (ignore the Name Tag portion).

If there's more interest I'll update the tutorial, PM me for specific questions.

This program is used when you already have your templates set up, with multiple items being done at one time, not like Print Merge.

Shaddy