Are you looking to learn how to convert text to an object in Illustrator? Well, you’ve come to the right place! In this article, I’ll guide you through the process of transforming text into a fully editable vector shape using Adobe Illustrator.
Converting text to an object in Illustrator is a useful technique that allows you to have more control over your typography. By converting text into a shape, you can apply various effects and transformations that are not possible with regular type. Whether you want to manipulate individual letters or create custom lettering, this skill will come in handy.
How To Convert Text To Object In Illustrator
Converting Text to Objects in Illustrator
One of the fundamental tasks in Adobe Illustrator is converting text into objects. This process allows you to manipulate text as a shape or path, opening up a whole new world of creative possibilities. To convert text to objects in Illustrator, follow these simple steps:
- Select the text: Start by selecting the text you want to convert. You can do this by clicking on the text with the Selection tool (V).
- Convert to outlines: With the text selected, navigate to the “Type” menu at the top and choose “Create Outlines.” Alternatively, you can use the shortcut Ctrl+Shift+O (Windows) or Command+Shift+O (Mac).
- Manipulate as objects: Once you’ve converted the text into outlines, it becomes a group of editable vector shapes that can be modified using various tools and effects available in Illustrator.
Converting text to objects gives you more control over individual letters or even whole words. You can apply gradients, fills, strokes, distortions, and transformations just like any other object in Illustrator.
Using the Convert to Shape Feature
Illustrator also provides an alternative method for converting text into shapes using its “Convert to Shape” feature. Here’s how:
- Select your text: Choose the desired text with either the Selection tool (V) or Direct Selection tool (A).
- Access “Convert to Shape”: Go to the “Type” menu again but this time select “Convert Text to Shape.
- Modify as needed: After conversion, each character will become a separate shape that can be further customized by adjusting anchor points, applying effects or fills – whatever your design needs demand.
The advantage of using “Convert to Shape” is that it offers more flexibility when it comes to working with individual characters within your typography designs.
Process Of Converting Text To Outlines In Illustrator.
Step 1: Select the Text
First, open your Illustrator document and select the text you want to convert to outlines. You can do this by simply clicking and dragging over the text with the Selection Tool (V).
Step 2: Create Outlines
With the text selected, go to the “Type” menu at the top of your screen and choose “Create Outlines.” Alternatively, you can use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+Shift+O (Windows) or Command+Shift+O (Mac) for a quicker method.
Step 3: Verify Outlines
Once you’ve created outlines, you’ll notice that your text has transformed into individual objects. To verify this, try selecting one of the letters. If it’s an outline, each letter will be selectable as its own separate shape.
Step 4: Edit Outlines
With your converted text now in outline form, you have more control over its appearance. You can adjust anchor points and paths using various tools such as Direct Selection Tool (A), Pen Tool (P), or even reshape them using Warp Tools like Warp or Twirl.
Step 5: Save Your Work
Lastly, don’t forget to save your work! It’s always a good idea to keep a copy of your original editable text file before converting it to outlines since once it’s outlined, it becomes permanent and cannot be edited as regular type.
Converting text to outlines in Adobe Illustrator is a straightforward process that gives you greater flexibility in manipulating and customizing your typography. By following these steps, you’ll be able to transform your text into versatile vector objects, opening up a world of creative possibilities. So go ahead and experiment with this technique in your next design project!
