CUTOUT TEXT
Version 6 and up
Skill level: All
Tools used:
Text
Selection
R/C
Ever wondered how designers create that deeply chiseled text look? This tutorial will show you one simple method of creating cutout text in PhotoImpact. For an even faster way, see my cutout task.
Before we begin: Transparent or Web Backgrounds will not work...
1. File/New/Single Color. Mine is 400x400, but it can be any size.
2. Ctrl-F to fill with a background of your choosing. You may create a marbled background like I did, use the background designer, or a photo, or virtually anything you like. Your results may vary. In general, a lighter background will give better results.
3. When you are happy with your background, select the Text tool. It's the tool with a T. Size your text approximately 60, and pick selection in the mode box on the attributes toolbar. Generally a thick font works best.
4. Type your text and arrange it until you are happy with the orientation.
Important: Be sure your preserve base image is turned on. To confirm, click on Selection and see if there is a check in the the box.
5. R/C the text and select invert. You should now see selection lines around the text and the border of the object. R/C and select Convert to Object.
6. R/C and select shadow. In the shadow dialog box, choose the settings I have here, or better yet, select your own. I found that the lower transparency and thinner shadow brought out the best results.
7. Click on the spacebar to select base image, then click 1-3 times on the minus brightness. This will darken the text a bit. Now select the shadowed object again.
8. With the object still selected, R/C and duplicate the object. This way we can add a white highlite to further define the cutout.
9. R/C, select shadow, and change the shadow color to white, reduce the x and y offsets to 1 or 2. Now pick the fourth shadow type, which puts shadows in the opposing sides. Results to the right.
All Text and Instruction ©PhotoImpactZone 2001-2010. I worked hard to develop this tutorial. Please use your talents to make yours. However, you may wish to try some different techniques. By all means, do so and share them, the best way to learn is sharing information.
