39
By using the
Deconstruct Text
command (on the
Shape
drop-down menu), a text shape can be split into individual
characters, allowing each character to be reformatted with different colors, sizes and fonts.
■
Deconstructing text
To split a text shape into its individual characters:
1
Using the
Move
tool (
), select the text shape that you wish to deconstruct. “Dancing ants” (moving
dashes) and a selection frame appear around the shape.
2
On the
Shape
drop-down menu, click
Deconstruct Text
. A box of “dancing ants” appears around each char-
acter.
NOTE: Text can also be deconstructed by clicking the
Deconstruct Text
button (
) in the
Text
bar.
■
Changing the text properties of an individual character
To reformat a character from a deconstructed text shape:
1
Click the
Move
tool (
), and then click outside of the text shape. The “dancing ants” and the selection
frame disappear from around the characters.
2
Click the stitched edge of the character that you wish to reformat. “Dancing ants” and a selection frame
appear around the character.
3
Reformat the character, for example by changing its size, font or color.
■
Example
To create the text shape “BELLE”, then deconstruct and reformat the individual letters:
1
Click the
Simple Text
tool (
), and then right-click in the design area. The
Text
tab of the
Text Properties
dialog box appears.
2
In the
Text
box, type “BELLE” (in uppercase letters).
3
In the
Font
drop-down list, select “Maryland”.
4
In the
Size
box, type “0.5”.
5
Click the
OK
button.
6
Using the
Move
tool (
), select the text shape. “Dancing ants” and a selection frame appear around it.
Figure 72
Figure 73
Chapter 16: Deconstructing Text
Summary of Contents for BE-100
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