Issues converting point type to area type

Forum|Forum|15 hours ago
July 20, 2026
5 replies
35 views

I often convert point type to area type. Frequently, when I do this, I cannot change the background color of the area type, which is the reason I’ve changed it to area type. I can’t figure out why. Often it’s when I’m given the file with text objects, but sometimes it happens when I add the text objects myself.

Always when I start out with area type, there’s no problem. Any ideas? I’m using Mac OS 15.7.7 and Illustrator 2026. Thanks for any help. It’s driving me insane.

Dave Creamer of IDEAS

Community Expert

Make sure you don’t have Outline view activated (View menu).

David Creamer: Community Expert (ACI and ACE 1995-2023)

Ton Frederiks

Community Expert

@Tami25723363cgss can you share an example file that shows the problem (use the paperclip icon to upload the file)?

Dave Creamer of IDEAS

Community Expert

How are you trying to change it? I use the Direct Selection tool and hover over the (invisible) edge of the area type frame. It helps if you indent the text from the edge of the frame first.

David Creamer: Community Expert (ACI and ACE 1995-2023)

T

Tami25723363cgssAuthor

Known Participant

Thanks David. I’m using the same method you are. Sometimes it works for me and sometimes it doesn’t. So strange.

T

Tami25723363cgssAuthor

Known Participant

Apologies. I got an error message, so I made a second post but the first one was actually there.

Monika Gause

Community Expert

Can you please show screenshots? They should contain the Appearance panel for the selected object. A background for point text objects is often applied via additional fills and effects.