The PDF builder in ARTERNAL allows you to generate and design custom PDFs using your inventory, all in one place.
Instead of exporting static documents, we’ve renovated our PDF feature so you can now build fully customized PDFs with flexible layouts, branded styling, and live artwork content.
With the PDF builder, you can:
Generate PDFs directly from inventory lists
Design layouts using slides and visual blocks
Add artwork, text, images, and shapes
Apply your gallery branding automatically
Preview and download polished, client-ready documents
Where to Find the new PDF Builder
Tap on Previews from the left-hand navigation
You’ll land on the main PDF dashboard
Here you’ll see:
Recents (previously created PDFs)
My PDFs (For users with teams, you can find the PDFs you created here.)
Archive (Archived PDFs)
Brand Profile (PDF settings)
A Create New button to start a new PDF
Step 1: Create a New PDF
Click Create New
Select a list (inventory, exhibition, fair, or selection cart)
Click Generate PDF
Once selected, your PDF will be automatically generated and opened in the editor.
Step 2: Get Familiar with the Editor
When your PDF opens, you’ll see a visual editor designed for quick layout control.
Left Panel: Pages
Shows all pages in your PDF
Click to navigate between pages
Drag to reorder pages
Main Canvas
The page you’re actively editing
Move and resize elements directly on the page
Right Panel: Properties
Updates based on what you select
Controls layout, typography, spacing, opacity, backgrounds, and more
Top Bar Controls
At the top of the editor, you’ll find:
Back → Return to the PDF dashboard
Menu → Access additional settings (pages, margins, rename, etc.)
Preview → View your PDF before exporting
Download → Export your finished PDF
Share → Generate a live link to view your PDF in a browser
Step 3: Add Content to Your PDF
You can build your PDF using flexible content blocks.
Add Artwork
Pull artwork directly from your selected list. Main images automatically include captions, which can be edited.
Add Text
Use text blocks for titles, descriptions, or curatorial notes.
Add Shapes
Add simple shapes like rectangles, circles, or lines to structure your layout.
Add Images
Upload images from your computer, such as logos or supporting visuals
Step 4: Add and Structure Pages
Click + New Page to build out your PDF.
You can choose from:
Cover Slide → Title page with background
Artwork Slide → Artwork with caption
Detail Slide → Full-bleed image
Blank Slide → Fully custom layout
This allows you to structure your PDF like a presentation, catalog, or sales document.
Step 5: Customize Your Layout
Click on any element (artwork, image, or text) to edit it.
You can adjust:
Position and alignment
Font, size, and spacing
Opacity and shadows
Layer order (bring forward or send backward)
Background color or image
Share Your PDF
You can share your PDF using a live link, making it easy to send to collectors, clients, or collaborators without downloading a file.
How to Share a PDF
Click Share in the top right corner
Select Share Link
Click Copy to copy the link
Send the link to your recipient
Your recipient will be able to view the PDF directly in their browser.
How Shared Links Work
Shared PDFs are live links, which means:
Any updates you make to the PDF will automatically reflect in the shared link
You don’t need to resend the link after making changes
The link always shows the most recent version of your PDF
This is especially useful when you’re iterating on a presentation or updating available works.
Share Link vs. Downloaded PDF
There’s an important difference between sharing a link and downloading a PDF:
Shared Link
Always stays up to date
Reflects any edits made after sharing
Downloaded PDF
Static file
Does not update after changes are made
If you need a fixed version for records or offline use, download the PDF.
If you want a flexible, always up-to-date version, use a share link.
When to Use Each
Use a Share Link when:
You’re still editing or refining the PDF
You want recipients to always see the latest version
You’re sending to collectors or clients digitally
Use a Download when:
You need a finalized version
You’re attaching it to an email
You need a static file for records
Brand Profile (Optional Setup)
You can set up your Brand Profile to ensure consistency across all PDFs.
This includes:
Gallery name and contact details
Logo (light and dark versions)
Brand colors
Typography
Once set, your branding will automatically apply to your PDFs.
Tips
Start with a cover slide to introduce your PDF
Use detail slides for high-impact visuals
Preview your PDF before downloading
Use your Brand Profile to save time on styling
❓ FAQs
Q: Can I edit artwork captions in the PDF?
A: Yes. Captions are automatically added, but you can edit or reposition them.
Q: Can I upload my own images?
A: Yes, images can be uploaded and placed anywhere in your layout.
Q: Can I reorder pages?
A: Yes, drag and reorder pages from the left panel.
Q: Does the PDF automatically use my branding?
A: Yes, if your Brand Profile is set up.
Explore Layout Ideas
Looking for inspiration?
Check out PDF Layout Examples & Best Practices to see how to structure different types of gallery PDFs and design more polished presentations.