Problems adding Mambo code to custom template

Malfunction · 24.02.2005, 04:25

Ok...I'm usually one to try and bully my way through problems and figure them out myself but I think I may have met my match. I've purchased a premade HTML template that I have edited/sliced the PNG file to my liking and then exported to DreamWeaver MX 2004 (with Mambo extensions installed). I've read both of the popular tutorials on how to make your own template and know that I need to insert the Mambo Head code, module code etc utilizing the extension set in Dreamweaver. My problem is that whenver I try to insert say the footer code, the actual PHP icon that displays in design view in Dreamweaver is outside the area I want it to appear in.

I'm wondering if the HTML table that Fireworks created isn't in the right format. An example is :

<tr>
<td colspan="17"><img name="n01_home1_r18_c3" src="images/01_home1_r18_c3.jpg" width="636" height="43" border="0" alt=""></td>

When I insert <?php include_once('includes/footer.php'); ?> it doesn't appear in the slice that I've designed it to appear in. It always appears outside the slice. When I insert the Mambo code it throws off all the tables in design view. I'm sure there is a simple answer and would definitely appreciate any input at this point.

Regards,

Rob

ufo · 24.02.2005, 11:24

Try to modify your template this way:
All the images should be used as a background for cells (the hard way is by using CSS code).
Use small slices of background images to fill the area that you want to obtain self expanding areas and a "liquid" design.
The "height" tag causes a lot of trouble.

Also it's easyer to ask an expert to do it,

but it will cost you!

Good luck.
PS. Next time try to use a Mambo template (modify it) or make yourself one from scratch, by slicing images you get in trouble.

Jifor · 24.02.2005, 18:06

Unfortunately there are a lot of folks who buy into the Fireworks sliced image type template and find many many problems.

Template Monster is a prime example of "psd-file-to-web-in-a-minute" messes.

UFO is right. Simplify your slices and use the css to make the images background images. It sounds like the modules is competing for space with the image.

I don't mean to discourage you, but starting over with the same image as a background would be a good idea. Post here if you want some pointers.

You can do a lot with css.

Cheers,

David

mammothman · 25.02.2005, 17:56

I agree with UFO and David. You can still use your graphic, but the BEST way is to do it as background images using CSS. You can still layout your structure as tables in dreamweaver if you like. Be mindful however of what modules and components you load into the template, and also, keep in mind that the length of the page may vary depending on the content that gets inserted, so you will need to play with the background images of some sections so that they look good repeated.

If you need more help, post in here, and I'm sure one of us can assist.