Blend Tool in AI

[doduyandh]

Hi all,

I have a problem when I use Blend Tool in AI.

I want to make a LED board (the size of LED is: 5mm). I arrange 5mm LED on the PATH. The problem appear when I expand TEXT anf convert TEXT into PATH.

I coule make with a single path of TEXT but I can't bend object on muti-path on TEXT. The "Replace Spine" function is locked.

Please help me to know how to do this!

Thanks so much!

[Monika Gause]

The two letters might be grouped, the A is a compound path.

You can release both in the Object menu.

Use the layers panel for inspection

[doduyandh]

I have to blend "replace spine" 3 times with the simple word "AN". If the complex or long word, what is the best way?

[John Mensinger]

Right, Blend may not be the best option for pursuing your objective. A dashed stroke or art brush would be easier and deliver a better result.

[doduyandh]

I got it!

Thanks so much!

[doduyandh]

Thank so much with your ideas,

I have to blend "replace spine" 3 times with the simple word "AN". If the complex or long word, what the way is?

[Monika Gause]

You can only do one path at a time.

Try and open the paths (with the scissors tool click on one anchor point)

If all you want to do is circles along the paths, have you tried a dashed stroke?

[doduyandh]

Thanks you!

[Jeff Witchel, ACI · Accepted solution]

I agree with John Mensinger. A Dashed Stroke is a much better way to achieve what you're looking for. (See screenshot below.)

And here's a video that shows how to make a Dotted Stroke in Illustrator. http://www.jeffwitchel.net/2012/03/dashes-of-stroke-secrets/

If you don't want to watch the whole video, I start discussing Dotted Strokes at about 3:30 into the video.

You can apply a Dotted Stroke to your outlined type (or even live type). To keep the process easier, add a Dotted Stoke to any ordinary path (not Compound Paths) and then save a Graphic Style of the Appearance you'd like in the Graphic Styles panel. Select your type with the Selection tool and apply that Graphic Style.

[doduyandh]

I am going to watch video and try it.

If I have trouble when I do it, I will feedback with you to follow my job!

Thank you for your tips!

[doduyandh]

So great! I got it.

It's very easy for me to do LED board in my job!

Thanks so much!

[Jeff Witchel, ACI]

Glad to help!