Create PostScript and EPS files in InDesign

In the world of graphic design and printing, the need to create Postscript (PS) and Encapsulated PostScript (EPS) files is sometimes unavoidable. Many designers, publishers, and printers prefer PS and EPS files because they preserve complex vector illustrations and designs perfectly. This tutorial will guide you through the process of generating these files with one of the most popular design tools in the industry; Adobe InDesign.

PostScript is a page description language that describes a page's appearance and is widely used by printers. On the other hand, EPS files hold both the textual data (as in PostScript) and the related bitmap data.

Requirements

Before progressing, ensure you have the following:

• Adobe InDesign Software: This is the software we’ll be using to create our design and then export it in PS or EPS format. It is recommended to use the latest version to get the most robust functionality and compatibility.
• A design or document ready to export: For this guide, we assume that you have a design or document created in InDesign that you wish to export as an EPS or PS file.

Creating a PostScript File in InDesign

Creating a PostScript file from your InDesign document is a straightforward process. Follow these steps:

1. Open your document in InDesign.
2. Go to the “File” menu and select “Print.” Alternatively, you can press Ctrl + P (Windows) or Cmd + P (Mac).
3. In the Print dialog box, choose “PostScript” from the Printer/ Destination drop-down list.
4. Select the desired PPD (PostScript Printer Description). Often, the PPD you select will depend on the final output location of your document. If you are unsure, select “Device Independent.”
5. Under “Output,” choose the correct color output. This is of crucial importance if your design includes color elements.
6. Click “Save” to save the file. A dialog box will appear for you to specify the location where the PostScript file will be saved.
7. Name your file and click “Save.”

Creating an EPS File in InDesign

Creating an EPS file is also quite straightforward:

1. Open your document in InDesign.
2. Go to the "File" menu and select “Export.”
3. In the format field, select “EPS” from the drop-down menu. It is important to note that InDesign will only export the page that is currently active or the one you last clicked on. If you want to export all the pages as separate EPS files, you will need to do them one by one.
4. Click the "Save" button. An “EPS Export Options” dialogue box will appear, where you will need to select the correct options based on your needs.
5. After going through the settings, click "OK". InDesign will now save your design as an EPS file in the location you selected.

Opening EPS files

EPS files can't be opened directly in InDesign. They need to be placed in an InDesign document. Alternatively, there are other useful tools like EPS Viewer which you can use to view and convert EPS files.

Conclusion

Being able to create PostScript and EPS files from your design is vital knowledge for every graphic designer or anyone involved in the print industry. Whether you want to ensure accurate color output, have compatibility with different machines or software, or reduce file size for easier sharing and quicker upload/download times, PS/EPS files often come in handy.

Once you are done designing and exporting your design in InDesign as EPS or PS, remember to always double-check your file for any potential issues such as missing fonts or images. Always communicate with your print service provider to ensure that they can handle the file format you are sending.