How can I convert PSD to an ZEN TEMPLATE?

[dhanesh]

Anybody please have any information on how to convert a PSD into a actual working Template.I am tired of those free template from zen users. Please.... have a variety in design..not those 3 column layouts again and again...

I mean how to make those beautiful designs to turn into an actuall working template.

1)Slicing and converting into HTML
2)Turn it into a PHP.
3)Coding with appropriate sources from zencart.

Please have any idea....

[stevesh]

Sorry, but it doesn't work that way.

You have to style Zencart by editing the CSS file(s) and adding images, etc. in the template PHP files (usually begin with tpl_).

[Kim]

BTW- The free templates are made with 3 columns as the default, but that doesn't mean you have to use all three - you can shut them off in the Admin> Configuration> Layout settings

[Kim]

PS - a screenshot of the idea you have would help us to give you the best advice for implementing it.

[kobra]

The pieces:

body
mainWrapper
header
left column
center
right column
footer

A Sliced PSD design piece can be attached to each of these elements or one of it's sub-elements, only if the element is used. By doing so one can recreate the PSD design.

No requirement to generate this into html as it will not normally be used

[dhanesh]

The pieces:

body
mainWrapper
header
left column
center
right column
footer

A Sliced PSD design piece can be attached to each of these elements or one of it's sub-elements, only if the element is used. By doing so one can recreate the PSD design.

No requirement to generate this into html as it will not normally be used

Ya i am expecting this type of answer.Can you please specify the steps involved in detail.Those template like in Template monster.

templatemonster.com/zencart-templates.php

I am don't talking of those simple right or left side contents customizing.I think you got the idea.Can you point out some tutorials of any on that kind.I know its a lengthy process.

[kobra]

No tutorials that I am aware of

One must be familiar with the Zen Cart structure and a capable web designer and know the functions in PS. The remainder is just applying this knowledge

Do not use TemplateMonster as a guide

[dhanesh]

Ya i searched and searched in the whole forum.But till not yet found an answer.

I do respect the guys who developed this amazing system.But they must also had provided some documentation of its User interface design aspect.

Regarding the Template monster,Kobra i can see how basic or say inferior the designs are in the forum to those in template monster.
(No intention to hurt anyone)
I do accept there will be negative aspects in them,but in the front end who wins?
Clients want that type of designs.I had done a site in website baker.
Its also a PHP oriented Open CMS .How nicely the folks documented step by step design conversion process from PNG to template.I was expecting that type of help from Zencart too.

[kobra]

Template Monster templates are attractive

I was refering to how they assemble them as not to use them as a guide.

Search here for them and see the issues they cause by coding ourside of the structure.

Lack of documentation is a whole other matter...

[Kim]

It is extremely difficult to document an exact process because every design is different and add to that the dynamic nature of Zen Cart and couple it with it's ability to have different layouts on different pages and you have a nearly impossible task.

Start in the tutorials/FAQ with the how to's on creating a custom template and then break your idea in small pieces.