School Days Collection
by Jill Evans
Printing Instructions

The color images in this collection have been prepared in two forms.

  1. PDF - these are ready to print files that will open in Adobe Acrobat Reader -(a free program available for download from Adobe.com) - often with multiple images on one page. This is the easiest way to use the handouts. However, the image resolution is not as sharp in pdf files. If you are not familiar with editing graphics, this is the safest way to print the handouts.
  2. JPG and PNG image files. PNG files have transparent backgrounds. Either JPG or PNG files can be inserted into any document for any software program that allows images to be included. They are compatible with most software programs such as Microsoft Word, WordPerfect, Publisher, PrintShop, etc. They are designed to be printed in color.

You can drag and drop, copy and paste or use your software program instructions for inserting the JPG and PNG images into a document. Adjust the size and arrange them on the page as desired. The images can be sized smaller to fit more on a page or larger, according to your needs.

You can, if you know how, add your own text within your software program before printing, or hand print your own message after printing. To overlay text on top of an image, refer to your software program instructions for text wrap or image layout. Often there is an option to place the image "behind text." When the image is dark or bright, you may want to use a white text color so it is easier to read. On the subdued images, black text is easiest to read.

You can print the JPG and PNG images from a graphics program or an internet browser - please use "print preview" to be sure that the image is the size you want. Most programs have a way to reduce or enlarge the size of the image before printing.

Special Projects

Some of the images are designed for special projects. These may be pdf files already formatted on the page to be printed directly from Adobe Acrobat Reader (a free program available for download from Adobe.com) without inserting into another program or further sizing etc. so that they retain their proper proportions.

Paper Selection

You can print on white paper, or on white cardstock, or on photo paper, depending on the desired result. Bookmarks, cards, gift tags and boxes should be printed on cardstock. Envelopes may be best on regular paper. You may want to print on vellum or print on cardstock and overlay with a sheet of vellum and paper punch holes in each and attach with a ribbon. Using a colored/textured/patterned paper can change the coloring of the photos and give an undesireable effect. But layering the print outs with other decorative paper can be a lovely way to add impact to your handout.

Print Quality

For best results, set your print quality to the highest setting.

Scrapbook Projects

The scrapbook papers are designed to be printed 12"x12". If you do not have a wide format printer, you can print them on 8.5"x11" and add to a sheet of 12x12 cardstock. Try digital scrapbooking by layering the background papers and other images with your own photographs, and either print the finished page, or send it to family and friends. You can have 12x12 pages printed at copy centers like Kinko's and Walmart. Call your local copy center to see if they can print a file on 12x12 and ask what file type they accept, and how to bring it to them for printing. Often they have online services where you can upload a file and then go pick it up at the store.

Be Creative

Use your imagination to create different kinds of memorable projects! We will include some creative projects, but you are only limited by your imagination when it comes to what is possible! Here are some ideas:

  • Calendars - add the images to your planning calendars
  • Gift tags you can attach to an object with a ribbon
  • Candy Wrappers you cover a store purchased candy bar
  • Jar/Can labels you add to a glass jar or tin can
  • Stickers you print on sticker paper
  • Transparencies you print on transparency film
  • T-shirts - remember to reverse the image when you print on iron-on transfer paper that you apply to fabric.
  • Decoupage - print on paper and cut out and apply to an object such as a wooden plaque with ModPodge fixative.

Here are some links to websites with fun ideas.