3 Mistakes To Avoid When Selecting a Template: Reasons You're Wasting Hours Editing

Editable templates are supposed to save you time and money. Theoretically, all you need is to add your custom text or photos. DONE!

But hold on…if it were that easy, then why do so many people spend hours and hours editing in frustration?

That’s because they didn’t chose the right template to start. There’s nothing wrong with the template itself — it’s just not the right template for them.

Here are three mistakes to avoid when selecting a digital template.

1. Not paying attention to the word count or text space allotted on the template.

Selecting the right template goes beyond finding the right look-and-feel. Taking into account the allotted space for your custom text and images is crucial.

Let’s use bakery menus, for example. If the template layout only has space to feature eight items but you have 12, then the entire layout would need to be altered to fit the extra four. To avoid this, select a template that includes space for 12 items to begin with, or one as close to that number as possible.

Or better yet, chose a template set that includes multiple layouts. This option allows you to accommodate different number of products offerings over time, while keeping your look-and-feel consistent. 

Shop this template.

2. Not looking into the graphic editing platform used to edit the template.

Programs like Canva, Adobe Express, Corjyl, etc. are popular with non-designers for their ease of use. However, each has its unique user interfaces and functions. If you are a regular template user, my advice is to pick one platform and stick with it.

Jumping across different platforms means there’s a new learning curve each time. It also raises compatibility issues across your template files.

Canva

Pros	Cons
Intuitive and easy to use Vast library of templates, photos, and illustrations Free and paid options depending on your needs	Limited functions compared to other professional graphics software Many assets, features, and functions require paid account Limited export formats and options

Adobe Express

Pros	Cons
Integrated with Adobe's Creative Cloud Advance editing and graphic design functions Wide range of export options and formats	Steeper learning curve compared to more user-friendly platforms Requires a subscription to access full features Higher cost compared to other graphic design tools

Corjyl:

Pros	Cons
Intuitive and easy to use Free to use with no subscription required Basic editing tools for quick design projects	Limited range of features Small library of templates and assets Limited export options and formats

3. Not trying out the demo version (if available) before purchase.

Demos are a great way to test whether your content actually works with the template (see #1 above) and gauge how easy it is to edit the template using the specified design software (see #2 above).

Easy-to-Edit Templates From Pink Clementine Designs

Templates from Pink Clementine Designs make it easy to avoid these common pitfalls.

✓ Many of our templates, like our bakery menus, come in multiple layouts to accommodate different number of products you offer. 

✓ All of our templates uses Canva for its ease of use, accessibility, and vast library of assets. The free version of the account is all you need. 

✓ There’s a free demo version for every template, so you can try before you buy. The link can be found in each product listing. 

Shop easy-to-edit templates from Pink Clementine Designs.