Outlining text

Question

Hi all,

I am not sure if I am using the correct term here. I am trying to work out how to do this in InDesign. I could do it in Photoshop and add as an image, but would prefer to do it in InDesign.

See attached image. Red font outlined in black.

Regards,

Steve

Spenno · Accepted Answer

I assume you are referring to a stroke? Outlining in graphic design terms generally means converting live text into a vector, enabling it to be used in all sorts of ways and to avoid font issues, but equally creating the issue that it won't be editable. If you want to add a simple stroke, hit F10 or Window>Stroke to bring up the options. Highlight the desired text and add the required stroke, you will have basic colour/thickness options as well as type of outline (dotted/double etc) and some positioning options which may achieve what you want. I often have a duplicate of the text behind the original with the stroke on. Have a play.

James Gifford—NitroPress · Answer

Just to completely clarify here:

In InDesign and most other Adobe apps, "outlining" text means converting it from font glyphs to complex vector shapes that are no longer editable "letters." This is a debated practice; it used to be common for certain kinds of print preparation and some printers (usually ones using antiquated processes) will still ask for it. It's also done with a few letters or words when the designer wants to modify or blend the letterforms, as is often done in Illustrator. But for many reasons, it's something to avoid in InDesign unless you have well-understood and well-thought-out reasons for doing so.

I think what you mean is simply putting an outline around letters. Easy-peasy in most Adobe apps; just select an outline color and thickness. You can then tweak how the line lays on the letter shape (outside, inside, on the center of the outline itself).

But wait, there's more! If what you want is to make the text stand out from a complex background, you can use a variety of effects that are more subtle than a hard line. Put your title in a text frame, select the frame, and explor the Object | Effects options, especially the bevels, glows and shadows. You can get a very distinctive look that isn't at all "fancy" looking but is more elegant than just a colored outline.

Hope that helps, or at least brings the other comments into focus.

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