add blank space around text

Forum|Forum|7 years ago
January 29, 2019
2 replies
7100 views

Hi all,

I'm using AI 2015 CC. I have a design with white text over some white lines in a kind of an "X" for a t-shirt design. I'd like the text to have a transparent outline around the letters, so they do not blend in with the lines that are supposed to appear as being behind the text.

How can I do that?

Thank you

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Correct answer rcraighead

One way would be to set your artwork (white lines and text) as a "Opacity Mask" on a white rectangle. This would allow the text to remain fully editable on the mask. Add a Black Fill Attribute on top of the Character Attributes in the Attributes Panel and assign an "Effect>Path>Offset Path" to it to create the "transparency" to the rectangle.

rcraigheadCorrect answer

Legend

One way would be to set your artwork (white lines and text) as a "Opacity Mask" on a white rectangle. This would allow the text to remain fully editable on the mask. Add a Black Fill Attribute on top of the Character Attributes in the Attributes Panel and assign an "Effect>Path>Offset Path" to it to create the "transparency" to the rectangle.

P

pranamanAuthor

Participating Frequently

rcraighead, thank you, that is exactly what I am looking for. The top image looks very close to my drawing.

I've been working with someone, and they actually produced the effect, but, they changed some of letter's font sizes. I asked them to correct it and create it without changing the font sizes, but they have not replied to my request, so, I am trying my hand at it.

In one of the files she sent me, I found a white rectangle to the right of the drawing and dragged it onto that.

I've selected all and found the "Opacity Mask".

As for "Add a Black Fill Attribute on top of the Character Attributes in the Attributes Panel", I've found the Attributes Panel, so I think. I've clicked the upper right icon, and see: "Show Overlay Print Only" and "Hide Note".

Am I close?

rcraighead

Legend

Sorry, I've confused you. You need the "Appearance" panel. I'll post a video shortly.

Here's the video. I forgot to show how to edit what's on the Opacity Mask. Two ways: Either by clicking the "Mask" thumbnail and editing (with all artwork visible) or by Option+Clicking to view ONLY the Opacity Mask artwork.