To type text inside a circle using the Type on a Path tool in Adobe Illustrator, you need to first create the circle and then utilize the tool to position the text within its boundaries. Here's how:
- Create a Circle: Use the Ellipse Tool (L) to draw a circle. Hold Shift while dragging to create a perfect circle.
- Select the Type on a Path Tool: Find the Type Tool in the toolbar and click and hold to reveal the hidden tools. Select the Type on a Path Tool.
- Click on the Circle's Path: Click on the edge (path) of the circle where you want your text to begin. This will replace the circle's stroke with the Type on a Path.
- Type Your Text: Start typing. The text will now follow the path of the circle. Initially, the text will likely appear on the outside of the circle.
- Move Text Inside the Circle: Use the Direct Selection Tool (A) to click on the text. You'll see a handle (an "I-beam" cursor with a small line through it) appear on the path. Click and drag this handle inside the circle. Dragging it inwards will flip the text from the outside to the inside of the circle.
- Adjust Positioning: Continue using the Direct Selection Tool to adjust the start and end points of your text along the circle's path until it's positioned correctly. You can also adjust the text's alignment (left, center, right) in the Paragraph panel (Window > Type > Paragraph).
Key Considerations:
- Visibility of the Circle: After adding the text, the circle's stroke will disappear. If you need the circle to remain visible as an outline, duplicate the circle before using the Type on a Path tool on the original circle. Then type on the path of one circle, and leave the other circle as your visible outline.
- Handle Placement: Precisely dragging the handle controls text position. It is very important to learn how to use that handle to ensure proper placement of the text.
By following these steps, you can successfully type text inside a circle using the Type on a Path tool in Adobe Illustrator.
