Are you designing a publication in Adobe InDesign and aiming to add a scroll or wave shape to your text? Here's a step-by-step guide to help you achieve this distinctive design effect. We'll use the Pen Tool to create a custom path for your text to follow.
First, we'll ensure you have the right tools. Open your InDesign document, select the 'Text' tool (T) and choose the 'Type on a Path' option from the toolbar. Then, open the 'Pen' tool (P) from the toolbar. Now you're ready to create your scroll shape.
Creating the Scroll Shape
To start, ensure your text is in a shape that can be morphed into a scroll. A straight horizontal line works best. Select the text frame, then go to 'Type' in the menu and choose 'Type on a Path'. Select 'Type Along a Path' and point the text in the direction you want it to follow.
Next, use the 'Pen' tool to create your scroll shape. Click and drag to define the curve, then click once to create a new point. Continue until you've created the desired shape. To close the path, simply click on the first point you created.
Adjusting the Text to the Path
Now that you have your scroll shape, it's time to make the text follow it. Select the text frame, then click on the 'Type on a Path' tool again. This will make your text flow along the path you've created. You can adjust the text's direction using the rotation tool or by manually dragging the text.
To ensure your text remains on the path, avoid adding too much text that might exceed the path's length. If you need to adjust the path, simply click on it with the 'Pen' tool and drag the points to reshape it.
Fine-Tuning the Design
Once your text is following the path, you can refine your design. Use the 'Pen' tool to adjust the path's shape, and the 'Selection' tool (V) to move the entire text along the path. You can also adjust the text's size, color, and font to make it stand out.
To add some flair, try creating a gradient or using a pattern swatch for your text's fill. This can give your scroll shape a dynamic, eye-catching look. Just remember not to overwhelm the scroll shape with too many elements.
Applying the Scroll Shape to Other Text
If you want to use the same scroll shape for other text, you can do so easily. Simply select the path you've created, then go to 'Edit' in the menu and choose 'Copy'. Paste the path into your new text frame, then use the 'Type on a Path' tool to make the new text follow the path.
You can also save the path as a custom shape for future use. Go to 'Window' in the menu, then ' Zuschneideelemente' (or 'Pathfinder' in English). Click on the 'Unified' button, then on 'Extract'. This will create a new knockout shape that you can save and reuse.
Experimenting with scroll shapes in InDesign can add a unique, dynamic touch to your designs. By mastering the 'Pen' tool and the 'Type on a Path' feature, you can create text paths that engage your readers and make your publications stand out. Happy designing!
