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I then add a linear fill to each of the objects in
'xarax.' You have a number of ways to manipulate fills, including
the kind of fill (one color, linear, radial, etc.), angle of the
fill, and whether it is simple or repeats.
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Adding linear gradients to objects
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Like the rounded rectangle shape, I add a bevel to
the 5 objects and play with the lighting, trying to match the xaraX
logo. I then add a shadow, offsetting it several pixels and softening
it. The last step was adding a bitmap fill to the interior of the
rounded rectangle shape. To do this I brought up my 'layer gallery'
and add a layer under my rounded rectangle shape. I create a new
rounded rectangle outline that fits inside and behind the black
beveled shape. You can select one of the existing tileable bitmaps,
go directly to the xara Web gallery via a pop window or use one
of your own.
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Using bitmaps as fills in Xarax
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Rollover Buttons
xara empowers designers to quickly create 'rollover' buttons. I create one
black button with a rounded corners. I then bevel it like the large rectangle
and type in 'Home' for a name. Now to build a navigation bar I click the
'Button and NavBar Tool' and drag a box around my button. I then see my 'Bar
Properties' window. Here I can quickly design the navigation bar for my Web
page.
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Use 'Bar Properties' to layout your navigation system
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I now have five buttons set horizontally. I rename
each one. Now to add 'Over' states I choose 'MouseOver' from the
drop down menu and then click the 'Create/Delete States' button.
I edit my choices and click 'Create' and xaraX builds five buttons
for my 'Over' state. I then do the same for my 'Down' state. The
XaraX method is very fast and a pleasure to use. Now to add 'URLs'
to each button is simply a matter of right clicking each button,
selecting 'Web Address' and entering the appropriate 'URL' and
choosing the type of target frame you wish need. Again, fast and
fun.
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Adding URLs an targets
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