How to Cut Out Text from an Image in Illustrator

By Tata Rossi 15 days ago, Software Reviews

How to Cut Out Text from an Image in Illustrator

Need to cut out text from an image in Illustrator to create a cool graphic design? This is not as complex as it seems. Follow this step-by-step tutorial for complete beginners to achieve impressive results in several minutes.

1. Add Text

First, launch Illustrator, and create a new document. Add text using the Type Tool (T).

how to cut out text from an image in illustrator type tool

2. Create Outlines

Select the text you wish to modify. Then, find “Type” in the main menu and navigate to Create Outlines. If you prefer using hotkeys, you can use the Shift+Ctrl+O/Shift+Cmd+O. This action turns the text into a graphic, that can no longer be altered.

how to cut out text from an image in illustrator create outlines

3. Create a Compound Path

Go to “Object”, select “Compound Path” from the dropdown menu that appears, and click “Make”. You can also use the key command Ctrl+8/Cmd+8.

how to cut out text from an image in illustrator make compound path

4. Add the Image

Import the photo of your choice. Select the Rectangle Tool (M) from the Tools Panel.

how to cut out text from an image in illustrator rectangle tool

5. Move the Text to the Front

Now, we’ll have to select the text and move it to the front. In order to do this, right-click on your selection, choose “Arrange”, and then “Bring to Front”. Use the key combination Shift+Ctrl+]/Shift+Cmd+] for quicker results.

how to cut out text from an image in illustrator arrange

6. Eliminate the Front Layer

Activate the Layers Panel, select the layers with the text and the square. Once you have done that, find the “Pathfinder” and select “Click to Minus Front”.

how to cut out text from an image in illustrator click to minus front

7. Make a Compound Path

Now, we’ll create a compound path again. Go to “Object”, navigate to “Compound Path”, and select “Make”.

how to cut out text from an image in illustrator make compound path

8. Create a Clipping Mask

Finally, select everything and go to Object > Clipping mask > Make. Use the key combination Ctrl+7/Cmd+7.

how to cut out text from an image in illustrator make clipping mask

9. Done! Save the File

You’re done! The text has been successfully cut out. Now, you can use this technique to realize creative graphic design ideas.

how to cut out text from an image in illustrator final

Besides, learning how to cut out text from an image in Illustrator will help you follow other popular Adobe Illustrator tutorials easily.

how to cut out text from an image in illustrator before after

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