Knowledge base · 02

Import IDML and start a project

Import an InDesign IDML file, check the text and save a local PFP project without changing the source file.

← IDML files & projects Updated: 2026-08-12

Polyframe imports IDML files exported from Adobe InDesign. It does not open the original .indd file. Ask the designer for the current IDML and a PDF for reference.

Before you import

  • Make sure the IDML contains the final source text and all required pages.
  • Keep the original INDD and IDML files unchanged.

Import the document

  1. Select Import IDML in the top toolbar or use Cmd/Ctrl+Shift+I.
  2. Choose the .idml file.
  3. Check the imported text in the Source column. Tables, captions and paragraphs appear as separate rows.
  4. Choose the target language above the grid. You can add more languages later.

If text or pages are missing, stop and check that you received the latest IDML. It is better to import the correct file than to work with an incomplete source.

Placeholder showing Import IDML and a populated Polyframe translation grid Illustration placeholder: show Import IDML, the target language and several Source rows. Crop: 16:10. Use neutral sample text. Final alt text: “Imported IDML text in the Polyframe translation grid”.

Save the working project

Select Save or use Cmd/Ctrl+S. Polyframe saves the document as a local .PFP project with its languages, translations and settings. The source IDML stays unchanged.

Use the PDF only as a visual reference. Polyframe needs IDML to keep the text connected to the InDesign layout.

Next, translate and edit the text in the grid.