I have a site collection and from that collection I have a child site (let's call it site A) I would like to use a different Master Page with Page Layouts used in Site A. I see where I define the Master Page used by Site A in Site Settings. Then from Site A I created a new Page Layout. That page layout was saved to the root site collection Master Page Gallery (as expected). By following instructions that I have found, I should be able to select Format -> Master Page -> Detach from Master Page while editing a page layout. And then use the Attach Master Page menu item to attach to a secondary master page. The problem is that the Detach from Master Page and Attach Master Page menu items are disabled.
Where am I going wrong
Thanks,
Tom
Attach different Master Page to layout page
DavidTempeArizona
If you are using MOSS you can set the master page for all pages per site (or sub-site).
I would recommend going via the Site Settings of the Site A and choosing the desired master page from there. All the page layouts of that site/sub-site will automatically use the chosen master page.
Maybe the following tool can help if you are using WSS which does not have a feature that lets you change master pages via the interface. The master page picker on CodePlex: http://www.codeplex.com/SPMasterPicker
Adamus Turner
I am using MOSS and I am familiar with setting the master page from within Site Settings for a particular Site. After re-reading my OP I may not be clear where my problem resides. The master page set in Site Settings is applied to the pages correctly when viewed in the browser. The issue is when I edit the page layout page in SPDesigner. When displayed in Designer using design mode, the masterpage of the Site Collection is used and not the masterpage from the Site where the page layout is used.
My workaround is to use code view.
If you have anything to add, I would like to hear.
Tom C
UnknownScripter
The process is not very intuitive.
First, in the left hand navigation pane, navigate to the gallery with the master page that you want to attach. Next, open the layout page in Designer, and make sure that it is selected. Then you can right click on the desired master page and select "Set as Custom Master Page."