Create pdf and store it as attachment

[Puneet_Sachdeva]

I would like to generate a PDF out of a record (to easily visualize the data) and attach the record as an attachment. I would like to do this for all the records in my base.

Any ideas on how to do this using either a script or Zapier/Integromat, possible using Formstack (does not have to use formstack though)? Would love any insight - I am capable of coding in JavaScript and can leverage that if necessary.

[Justin_Barrett]

kuovonne:

In Justin’s case, he uses a combination of Integromat and CloudConvert.

To clarify, I no longer use Integromat/Make (for anything). I now call CloudConvert’s API from an Airtable automation and save the resulting PDF directly to an attachment field.

Re: bypassing document services, I think that @Jeff_Haskin was referring to a service like Google or Documint where a document would be created—directly or via a template—before exporting as a PDF file. That said, the line is a bit fuzzy in this case as HTML might be considered a form of document, and therefore CloudConvert might be considered a document service, even though the original HTML “document” is never saved anywhere.

[LarryFlores]

Hey there,

For anyone looking, another great solution you might want to take a look at is Plumsail Documents. You can upload any DOCX template and use it to create documents from record data in Airtable. The integration is based on Zapier.

How to auto generate contracts from Airtable data in Zapier — Plumsail Documents

It is a paid solution, but you can take a free 30-day trial on their website.

[Tanel_Tahepold]

Hello,

One option is the PDF Generator API extension which allows you to build document templates and merge them with data you have on Airtable. Templates are hosted in the cloud, so there is no need to store Docx or HTML files. 

Disclaimer: I'm the founder of PDF Generator API

[CorporateUser]

Is this still the case that to get a fully automated service using Page Designer that you still need a third party? We are only allowed  to use airtable extensions in our company.

[JavierGO]

Looking for this option too, to generate a pdf automatically in airtable.

Have things changed since your 2020-2022 replies?

[Leslie_Burke]

@Tanel_Tahepold Is there a way to trigger the document to be generated and attached to the record without a human pressing a 'Generate" button? 

[Tanel_Tahepold]

It is possible to use the Scripting functionality in Airtable, but it requires some JavaScript know-how. You can check our example code on GitHub.

1. https://github.com/pdfgeneratorapi/airtable-scripting/blob/main/index.js
2. https://support.pdfgeneratorapi.com/en/article/how-to-integrate-with-airtable-1h5xdjw/#2-scripting