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Stacking Objects

By overlapping different objects on a template, you can create items that have unique graphics and other special effects. BarTender provides the following stacking commands to assist you in overlapping objects:

To access these stacking commands, point to Order on the Arrange menu, and then click the command that you want. Alternatively, right-click the object that you want, point to Arrange, point to Order, and then click the command that you want.

ClosedExample

The following barcode design uses a combination of BarTender features, including a stacking command from the Arrange menu.

  1. Add a barcode object to the template.

  2. Double-click the barcode to open the Barcode Properties dialog.

  3. In the left navigation pane, click Symbology and Size.

  4. In the Color field, select white in the color palette.

  5. In the left navigation pane, click Font.

  6. In the Foreground Color field, select white in the color palette.

  7. Click Close to return to the template. Only the handles that surround the barcode object are visible.

  8. On the main toolbar, click the icon, and then select a rectangle in the list of shapes.

  9. Draw a box around the barcode object.

  10. Double-click the box to open the Box Properties dialog.

  11. In the left navigation pane, click Box.

  12. In the Fill Properties area, select black in the color palette.

  13. Click Close to return to the template. A black box is visible.

  14. On the Arrange menu, point to Order, and then click Send to Back. The barcode is displayed as white on black. You can adjust the size of your box or barcode as needed.

When objects are stacked on the template, it is typically easier to select the object that is in front than the object that is behind, and the editing process can therefore become complicated. Also, be aware that to achieve the effect that you want at print time, the objects must be stacked in the correct order.