iWork Pages files to PDF's in Automator?

Sorry to revive an old thread, but I ran into the same problem today. I thought I finally had a use for automator, but I open up the app and I see word actions, but nothing for pages...

 

Hi,

I convert a monthly 32 page magazine from Pages to CMYK separated PDFs - the whole process takes about 30 min without Automator. First - all pages (one file pare page) are 'printed' to PS and then ALL ready PS files are dragged'n'dropped onto the open Distiller icon. At this point I go to the kitchen to heat up my coffee and when I return all PDFs are ready.

I've been asked this question by a reader of my blog and later that reader sent the Automator solution he had found. I haven't tested it myself - so take it as it is, please:

"I promised to let you know if I ever found out a simpler way to get CMYK pdf's from Pages. You can use Automator to add your own item to the menu that appears when you click on the PDF button in a Print dialog box.

AT YOUR OWN RISK, here is what to do:

1. Create two filters in ColorSync utility: one called Convert To CMYK and one called Create Best PDF-X. Screen shot attached.
2. Create a workflow in Automator that applies the CMYK conversion, then the PDF-X and moves the resultant file to the desktop.
3. Save As Plugin ... and select Print Workflow for the Plug-in for: section.

Now you will find that you have your own menu item that works like Save As PDF-X. You could of course extend this to apply all the other filter options that you described in your method. I did find however that the color space conversion had to be done as an independent step before creating the PDF-X - don't know why.

The files I created with this method passed the Pre-Flight tests on Adobe Acrobat Professional on Windows."

Hope this helps.
Sashura -