PNG compound path help
Copy link to clipboard
Copied
I'm new/self-teaching. AI CC 23.0.1
I've searched for answers for days and have figured out most of my issue.
I'm trying to replicate something like the image below. Text + Graphic WITH offset path(s) surrounding everything.
My problem is that I can't get the PNG (4 colors) image I'm using to work together with the text as a group. 1 of 2 things always happen:
1) The offset paths overlap if I outline the graphic and remove everything except the outline OR
2) I can't get the graphic to merge or compound path with the text.
I'm trying to use to either Pathfinder>Merge or Object>Compound path. I've been able to do it with text only and I did it with text and a generic star shape I drew with AI. I'm assuming I have to somehow process or adjust the png so it will play nicely with everything else. The test is the one I was able to create so I know it's possible to people who know what the heck they're doing...I appreciate any help!
Explore related tutorials & articles
Copy link to clipboard
Copied
Instead of "offsetting" try simply assigning two strokes to your grouped artwork in the Appearance Panel. Move them UNDER the Group and give them different widths. The back-most line will be slightly thicker than the one in front.
No Compounding, Merging or Expanding required.
Copy link to clipboard
Copied
I've attempted that (and demo'd below) and think the problem is the same/related. When I group the png and the text, the outline doesn't apply to png, only the text. Below, the red stroke is after I've grouped and added a stroke - note nothing on the yellow/black. If I try to offset, the offset will only be on the text.
Copy link to clipboard
Copied
Use a vector outline of the PNG, not the actual PNG when assigning an Appearance. Group the PNG separately (with a clipping path if needed).
Copy link to clipboard
Copied
I was able to File>Place the png (Thank you for that!). When I group, then Object >Compound Path>Make, I get: "Can't make a compound path. All objects in a compound path must be paths, and they cannot be brushed or part of an object."
Copy link to clipboard
Copied
I'm in the neighborhood but on the wrong street... I went to Object>Image Trace>Make and Expand on the PNG. This seemed to get me close, but when I work with the image, now, it's including the image border (it's lost transparent properties and includes the rectangular area of the image). I tried the offset (red line) to be safe and it does outline like I want but outlines the image border instead of the image. (Image border highlighted below.

