Create Stunning Curved Text in Procreate

Create Stunning Curved Text in Procreate

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Creating Text Along a Curved Path in Procreate
   1. Logo Design with Curved Text
   2. Using Other Software for Typing on a Path
   3. Manual Process in Procreate
3. Setting up the Canvas
   1. Creating a Circle Shape
   2. Aligning the Circle to the Design
4. Typing the Text
   1. Adding and Editing Text in Procreate
   2. Choosing the Font and Style
   3. Considering Kerning and Typeface
5. Wrapping Text Around the Top Circle
   1. Duplicating and Rasterizing the Text
   2. Shifting and Rotating the Letters
   3. Maintaining Consistency in Spacing and Alignment
6. Wrapping Text Around the Bottom Circle
   1. Shifting Letters and Creating Space
   2. Adjusting Spacing Between Words
7. Finalizing and Fine-tuning the Text
   1. Checking Spacing and Alignment
   2. Making Any Necessary Adjustments
8. Conclusion

Creating Text Along a Curved Path in Procreate

In this tutorial, we will explore how to create text along a curved path in Procreate, a popular digital art app. Many users often wonder if it is possible to achieve this effect, especially when designing logos or lettering with curved elements. While software like Photoshop and Illustrator offer direct options for typing on a path, Procreate requires a more manual process. However, with a few creative techniques, you can still achieve the desired curved text effect.

Logo Design with Curved Text

One common scenario where you might want to create text along a curved path is in logo design. For example, you may need to place text around a circular shape in your logo. This tutorial will guide you through the steps to achieve this effect.

Using Other Software for Typing on a Path

Unlike other desktop software such as Photoshop and Illustrator, Procreate does not have a built-in feature to directly type on a path. However, by following the manual process outlined in this tutorial, you can overcome this limitation and achieve similar results in Procreate.

Manual Process in Procreate

To create text along a curved path in Procreate, we will need to employ a manual process. This involves using the selection and move tools to shift and rotate individual letters, ensuring they align with the desired curved path. While it may require a bit more effort compared to using dedicated features in other software, it is still achievable with some creativity.

Setting up the Canvas

Before we begin creating the curved text, let's set up the canvas and create the necessary shapes.

Creating a Circle Shape

Start by creating a new layer and stamping a circle shape onto the canvas. You can find circle shapes in the shapes and ornaments set or use Procreate's shape snaps feature. Simply draw a circle with any brush, hold two fingers on the canvas, and Procreate will snap it into a perfect circle shape. Adjust the size of the circle as needed, ensuring the edges touch the design area.

Aligning the Circle to the Design

To ensure the circle is positioned correctly, consider aligning it to the center of the canvas. You can turn on the drawing guide in the actions panel settings, set the grid size to the highest value, and align the circle to the blue line marking the vertical and horizontal middle point of the canvas.

Typing the Text

With the canvas set up, let's type the text that we want to curve along the path.

Adding and Editing Text in Procreate

Access the actions panel and choose "Add" → "Add Text" to open the text tool. Double-tap on the canvas to enable continuous text input. Type the desired text, such as "Calligraphy Supplies," ensuring it stays on one line for now. You can edit the style of the text, adjusting the size and alignment to fit snugly inside the circle shape.

Choosing the Font and Style

For best results, opt for a block-style font like "Montserrat" or any sans-serif or serif font. Make sure the font is not script-based, as we will be breaking the letters apart to move them along the curved path. Adjust the size of the text so it fits neatly between the circle's guides.

Considering Kerning and Typeface

As you type the text, pay attention to the spacing between the letters, known as kerning. Since we will be manually shifting the letters around the path, try to maintain consistent spacing. Also, keep in mind the height of the circle and ensure the letters' size matches it, providing a good guide for both the top and bottom text alignment.

Wrapping Text Around the Top Circle

Now, let's begin wrapping the text around the top circle shape.

Duplicating and Rasterizing the Text

Before making any modifications, duplicate the text layer to have a backup. Group the duplicated layer to keep it organized, and lower the opacity to differentiate it from the original text layer. Once backed up, select the original text layer and choose "Rasterize" to convert it into a raster image. This makes the text uneditable but allows you to make precise adjustments using the selection and move tools.

Shifting and Rotating the Letters

Start by moving the letters out of the way, keeping only the start letter (e.g., 'P') in place for reference. Use the selection tool to draw around the letters you want to move and shift them up, creating space along the curved path. Then, switch to the move tool and use the green rotation node to rotate each letter into the desired angle. Ensure that the letters align with the circle's guide and line up with straight points at the bottom to maintain proper alignment.

Maintaining Consistency in Spacing and Alignment

As you rotate and shift the letters, pay attention to the spacing between them to maintain consistency. Aim for balanced and even spacing between the letters, ensuring the kerning remains visually consistent. Take a close look at the final result and adjust any letters that may appear too low or misaligned.

Wrapping Text Around the Bottom Circle

Next, let's wrap the text around the bottom circle, following a similar process.

Shifting Letters and Creating Space

To create space for the bottom text, move some letters out of the way, allowing a clear view of the bottom area. Repeat the process used for the top circle, shifting the letters and ensuring they align with the path. Pay attention to the spacing between words to maintain the appearance of separate words.

Adjusting Spacing Between Words

For multiple words, make sure each word is adequately spaced, resembling separate words. Adjust the entire word's position slightly if needed, keeping the spacing between the words consistent and visually appealing. Rotating the entire word slightly is also an option, as long as the overall angle matches the curve and does not disrupt the text's overall alignment.

Finalizing and Fine-tuning the Text

With both top and bottom text wrapped along the curved paths, it's time to make any necessary final adjustments.

Checking Spacing and Alignment

Take a step back and review the overall spacing and alignment of the text. Ensure that the spacing between words and letters is consistent and visually pleasing. Pay attention to any potential overlaps or misalignments that may require fine-tuning.

Making Any Necessary Adjustments

If you notice any spacing or alignment issues, use the selection and move tools to make small adjustments. Carefully move letters or groups of letters to achieve the desired spacing and alignment while maintaining the overall curved path effect. Take your time to fine-tune the text until it looks polished and visually balanced.

Conclusion

Creating text along a curved path in Procreate may require a manual process, but with the techniques outlined in this tutorial, you can achieve impressive results. Remember to consider the design elements, font choice, spacing, and alignment throughout the process. With practice and attention to detail, you can master the art of creating curved text in Procreate and apply it to various design projects. Enjoy experimenting and adding unique typography to your digital artwork and designs.