Following on from Task 17, below is a Step by Step guide to placing type on a path (in this case a curve). Paths are objects that you can draw in Photoshop which, unless you choose to fill or stroke them, remain 'invisible' on the final viewed or printed image. They are primarily used for shapes and masks though.

This task will introduce you to the tools in the third section of the Toolbar: The Path tools The Direct Selection tool (top left), the Path drawing tools (below), the Type tool (which you have already used) and the Line drawing tool (bottom right). The Path drawing tools and Direct Selection Tools take some practice if they are to be used successfully as some of their actions can appear unpredictable!

This task can be used in conjunction with the Wedding Card document or image started in Task 17. You should have a version saved in Photoshop, but if not, just practice this part using the image of the bride, preferably cut out using a vignette.


Step 1 - Drawing a Path
Drawing a path


The Path Drawing ToolsMy example is show here on a blank canvas, to show it more clearly, but the type can be applied to the Wedding Card image.
To draw a curve by first selecting the Pen Tool (arrowed) and choosing the first option on the flyout list. To draw this as a Path make sure the Paths icon is selected in the Options toolbar (highlighted by the red square).

Then start the curve going from left to right, by clicking first on the left (at A), then clicking on the right hand side of the canvas (at B).

Step 2 - Modifying a path
Modifying a path


Initially you will have a straight path. It was important to draw it left to right, so that when the type is added, it flows naturally above the path and not below.
This path now needs to be turned into a curve.
First select the Convert Point tool on the Path drawing tool flyout (highlighted). Then click and drag on one of the line end points, which will add 'handles' (arrowed) which will dynamically change the curve. Modify both ends to get an even curve.

Step 3 - Adding the type
select your file

Direct selection tool


Tip: A useful trick with this is to add a new layer and then put in the type you want, get it the right size and colour etc., then cut and paste it onto the curve. It eliminates most of the trial and error.

When you have the type as you want it, select and cut it, then click on the layer where you have your path. It is important that, if for example you have typed in centre aligned text (because you want it centred on the path), you click as near to the centre of the path as you can. (The cursor will change into an I beam when you are over the path).
Click and paste. To move the type along tyhe line, use the Direct Selection Tool (arrowed). You should 'pick up' one of the handles (the insertion point one is arrowed) and drag. Practice this as it is tricky to master intially!

 



Don't forget to save the retouched image with a new file name and then create your evidence sheet with both versions on the image.

   
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