Create cutlines for text automatically without using Pathfinder

The type object has to be converted to outlines in order to apply a cut path to it. Running a pathfinder Unite function over the converted type object is usually a good idea in practice. The tracking in many typefaces will have some letters overlapping each other. Then there is the issue of OpenType Variable fonts; many of those feature vector overlaps within many of the individual letters. That can be a disaster if routing letters on a routing table.

If you're re-using the same document as a sort of template I suggest creating another dummy/template layer that has live type objects in the desired positions. You could do this with a separate document as well. The type objects can be quickly copied to the clipboard and pasted in place (Ctrl+F) into the actual production layout.

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@defaultr9yhpdey3v9n wrote:

Since I need to retype the text all the time, I also need to click each type on "Object > Expand" and then "Pathfinder > Merge".

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Do you mean Outline Text? If so:

• Select all text objects by going to the Select menu > Object > All Text Objects instead of selecting them one at a time
• With the Select tool, choose Type > Create Outlines to convert the text to editable paths.
  Details here:
  https://community.adobe.com/t5/illustrator-discussions/convert-text-to-outlines-using-illustrator/m-p/11476156

Jane

I don't think so, that would be really handy.

But I'm sure this can be scripted or actioned, but you'll still have to remember to run them!

Try recording an action...