Hello TLP scrappers! I am dropping in today with a quick tip for creating a curved text path in Photoshop. There may be times when you want to creatively insert some journaling on your page that works with different shaped elements. For example, take a look at this page:
I wanted to add a journaled message on the page, but was not sure where to put it design-wise. I ended up wanting to place it around the outer curve of the Daily Indulgence circle element. Instead of typing and placing each word separately and trying to loosely curve the text around the circle element, or arching the text (which would have distorted it a bit), I decided to create a curved text path.
There are (as usual) several different ways to create a curved text path in Photoshop, but since I only needed an arc, I decided to use the ellipse shape tool to create my text path. Here is how I did it, in just a few steps:
Step 1. Create a new layer where you will add your text. With that new layer active, select the Ellipse Shape Tool and set it to Path. Now click on the layout and drag out a circle that surrounds the outer edge of the circle element. Hold down the Shift key while you are dragging if you want to make a perfect circle shape. You can also move the circle while you are dragging it out by holding down the space bar. You can see what my circle path looked like below.
Step 2. Once your circle path is drawn and placed, select the Text Tool and hover your cursor over the line where you want to start typing. Watch for the marking around the text tool to change from a rectangle to a curved line when it is held over the path. Once you see the curved line, left click and then start typing. Your text will follow the path you created with the Ellipse Shape tool.
And that is all there is to it! Here is a close up of my curved text:
I hope you have fun creating your own shaped text lines (remember that you can use any shape, not just the circle I used in this demonstration). Be sure to share your shaped text paths with us in the TLP Gallery!
Until next time ~
Judie (HeyJude)
KimJ says
I love all of your Photoshop tips, Judie! So many great little details that add so much to the finished page!
Judie (HeyJude) says
Thanks, Kim!
GammaNonna says
The is my first stop on TLP site after registering and look at the awesome place I ended up! Not only is your piece beautiful, but what an awesome tip! I would call this a WIN for me today! Thank you!
GammaNonna says
I had to go and give this exciting tip a try! I am using PhotoShop2019 & after playing around a bit I got it and LOVE this! I wanted to come back and let you know I am thrilled how easy you made it all seem. I was aware this option was available….but other tutorials/instructions have not been as clear as yours to this rattled old brain. I can’t wait to read more of your tips! Thank you
Judie (HeyJude) says
Welcome to The Lilypad! I’m so glad the tip was helpful – we would love to see your page in the Gallery. :)
Dalis says
Awesome tutorial! OMG… you saved me like 3 steps!!!!!!
— Dalis
Judie (HeyJude) says
Yay! I love shortcuts too. ;)