Hybrid tutorial with Paula Gilarde!

Hi everyone! Paula Gilarde back again with another hybrid tip for you.  Last month I showed you how to create a simple text path. As promised, I'm back this month with a more advanced version of last month's tip. Did you know that you could fill any shape with text? Using Photoshop CS4 it's very easy. Sorry Photoshop Elements users, this tip is not for you -- text paths are not available in PSE yet, but you can use paths created in Photoshop. Google "photoshop text paths" and you might find something to suit your needs.

Here's my layout where I filled a shape with text -- I used a road-sign shape to go along with my road trip theme and then I cut around the edges after I added the text.

 

Here's how I did it in Photoshop (CS4):

1. Create a new file in Photoshop (mine was 11x8.5, 300 dpi)

2. Using the custom shape tool (U), draw a shape on your canvas.

3. Switch to the horizontal type tool (T) and place your cursor within the shape if you want to fill the shape.

 
4. Type your text to fill in the path. It's a good idea to justify your text to make sure the words go to the edges.

5. Print!

You can also use the Pen tool to draw a path. The Pen tool looks like the nib of an old ink pen, and is located near the shape tool. Make sure you have Paths selected in the top of the screen (it's the middle option), shape layers might be selected by default. Drawing the path can be a bit tricky as the pen tool is difficult to master (at least I think so!) -- clicking, and clicking and dragging will give you different effects when creating your path. Once your path is created, switch to the horizontal type tool. Bring your cursor close to the path, and click to create type on the path. That's it!

~ Paula Gilarde

 

Comments

[Nancy]

What a great layout! I don't have Photoshop but I can see how it would sure be lots of fun! Thanks very much Paula! :o)

[Scrapbooking Ideas]

Great LO! I have been having a hard time designing scrapbooks with the digital method but you made the job sound easy! :) Thanks for sharing! Please check my site too! :)

[Monika Wright]

nice!

[Aly Dosdall]

fab tip paula, and i love your page!

[ellen s]

This is awesome! Pinned it on the Core'dinations Pinterest page :)_