Amazon.com Review
FreeHand is a straightforward, vector-based graphics application, but some of its tools can be tricky. This compact guide makes it easy to learn the intricacies of pen tools and Bézier curves. Beginners can follow along with the step-by-step instructions while working on their own projects. The concise text and thorough index also make this a convenient reference book. And, unlike gargantuan, phone book-sized guides, it can easily be held in your lap or placed in front of the keyboard while you work.
The book first addresses formatting a new document, working with views and units of measurement, and using layers. Next up are excellent chapters on creating shapes--the text teaches how to work with points, paths, freehand tools, the pen, and the Bézigon (a more automated pen tool). The book then moves on to moving and transforming; working with text, color, styles, and path operations; and using the Xtra tools (like the fisheye lens). The brief chapter on creating mathematically correct charts nimbly covers all the relevant charting options.
The book shows how to import and extract images and how to save them in different formats. It also explains how to prepare images for printing, using on the Web, or importing into Flash. And appendices discuss toolbars, menus and dialog boxes, keyboard shortcuts, fills, and strokes.
Although written with users of FreeHand 9 in mind, the instructions should still be clear and useful for owners of version 8. This guide also clearly describes the minimal differences between the Windows and Macintosh platforms. A fast read and thorough reference, this book will get you up and running quickly. --Angelynn Grant
Topics covered: Working with FreeHand 9, including an introduction to work environments and creating documents; working with tools, text, colors, and paths; importing, extracting, exporting, and saving in different formats; preparing artwork for printing, the Web, or importing into Flash; and creating charts and graphs.
From the Back Cover
FreeHand 9 for Windows and Macintosh: Visual QuickStart Guide is a fast, easy, and inexpensive way to learn the latest version of the enormously popular, but complex, illustration program. No wordy explanations here--just clear and concise step-by-step instructions, plus hundreds of screenshots and dozens of illustrations created by seasoned FreeHand artists and designers. The flexible, time-tested Visual QuickStart format lets you get exactly what you need from the book. Use its tabbed pages to go straight to topics such as tweaking text or adding a special effect, or read it straight through to get a thorough grounding in the program. The fundamentals are all here, from startup to image creation, from manipulation to importing the finished product into a page-layout program. You'll also learn how to work with third-party Xtras, print your projects, create Web graphics, and customize FreeHand.
