PrintMaster Platinum 11.0

While simple to install and easy to learn, this package is so full of nooks and crannies that it might take a while to master all the tools and become familiar with all the images. Users can incorporate their own pictures or drawings by using a scanner or digital camera; the editing programs are powerful and help preserve family memories. You can easily publish all materials on the Web and share with anyone, or a select few.

Though some fancy greeting-card paper is included with the set, users will run out quickly and must decide between ordering more or sending out materials printed on plain paper--not so bad for most projects, but not quite right for, say, wedding announcements. For simpler projects, the images from National Geographic, Carmen Sandiego, MasterArt, and other sources will look great and will spur users to heights of creativity. Beware of creating a bottleneck at the printer after installing PrintMaster Platinum 11.0. --Rob Lightner

Amazon.com Product Description
PrintMaster Platinum 11 provides tools to create photo albums, party sets, Web pages, T-shirts, home and garden crafts, and more. Users can pick from thousands of ready-made templates and images or start from scratch.

The new integrated photo-editing and multimedia features offer a host of new effects. You can store and share photos online, and give access to family and friends for viewing anytime. The Party Creator Wizard allows you to create coordinated party favors with a click (hat, banner, place card, invitation, and centerpiece). Turn any project into a screen saver, or attach sound/video and send it online. The enhanced design center features ease of use and multimedia tutorials. And you can organize your projects more easily with the My Art and Photos gallery.