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      How to Use the Apply Path to Text Tool in LightBurn

      Reshape Text Along Paths for Creative Designs

      QuickRef-ApplyPathToText

      What Is the Apply Path to Text Tool?

      The Apply Path to Text tool attaches text to a vector object, reshaping it to follow the contour of the selected path. It allows you to create intricate and creative text layouts that go beyond basic bending or alignment options.

      Location

      • Menu Path: Tools → Apply Path to Text
      • Context Menu: Right-click → Apply Path to Text

      Applications

      • Create curved or wavy text along a custom path.
      • Add decorative text to circular or complex shapes.
      • Use existing or custom paths to craft unique typography effects.

      How to Use the Tool

      1. Select Objects:

        • Select a single block of text.
        • Hold Shift and select a single vector shape.

      2. Apply the Path:

        • Go to Tools → Apply Path to Text or right-click and choose Apply Path to Text.
        • The text will automatically move to the path and reshape to follow its contour.
        Ref-ApplyPathToText-ApplyPathToTextDemo

      3. Adjust Text Attributes:

        • Use the Text Options Toolbar to modify text alignment, position, and other attributes.

      Adjusting Text on the Path

      Ref-ApplyPathToText-ApplyPathToTextOptionsToolbar

      Horizontal Alignment (Align X):

      • Middle: Centers the text between the start and end points of the path.
      • Left: Aligns the start of the text to the path’s starting point.
      • Right: Aligns the end of the text to the path’s ending point.

      Vertical Alignment (Align Y):

      • Middle: Centers the text vertically on the path.
      • Bottom: Places the text’s bottom edge directly on the path.
      • Top: Positions the top edge of the text beneath the path.

      Ref-ApplyPathToText-EditTextOnPath

      Manipulating the Path

      • Edit Nodes Tool: Adjust the shape of the path, and the text will update dynamically to match the new contour.
        PostPathApplicationDistortion
      • Delete the Path: Removes the applied text effect and restores the text to its original orientation.

      Tip: If you want to keep the path but prevent it from being engraved or cut, assign it to a Tool layer. Tool layers are ignored during laser output.

      Troubleshooting

      Text is Upside Down or Mirrored:

      • Flip the text before applying it to the path.
      • Rotate or reconstruct the path to adjust its orientation.

      Apply Path to Text Option Is Grayed Out:

      • Ensure exactly one Text Object and one vector path are selected.
      • Verify that the path is a single, connected vector. If not:
        • Use Edit Nodes or Auto-Join Selected Shapes to join disconnected paths.
      • Ungroup any grouped objects before applying the tool.

      Manually Created Paths with Draw Lines Tool:

      • The first point clicked is the start point, and the last is the end point. This defines the direction of the path for text alignment.

      Practical Tips

      • Use the Apply Path to Text tool for designs requiring curved text, such as banners, badges, or labels.
      • Combine this tool with creative paths to add flair to your projects, like circular engravings or wavy text effects.
      • Experiment with the Text Options Toolbar to perfect the placement and alignment of your text.

      By mastering the Apply Path to Text tool, you can create stunning, professional designs with text that flows seamlessly along your vector shapes.