How to Add an Outline to Text in Photoshop

Adding an outline to text in Photoshop is straightforward and can be achieved using the Layer Style feature. This method works with any font.

The Easiest Method: Using Layer Styles

Create your text: Use the Type tool to add your text to your Photoshop document.
Select the text layer: In the Layers panel, click on the text layer to select it.
Access Layer Styles: There are two ways to access the Stroke option:
- Method 1: Right-click on the text layer and choose "Layer Style" > "Stroke."
- Method 2: Go to Layer > Layer Style > Stroke.
Customize your stroke: A dialog box will appear allowing you to adjust the following:
- Size: Controls the thickness of the outline.
- Position: Choose "Inside," "Outside," or "Center" to position the stroke relative to the text.
- Color: Select the color for your outline.
- Blend Mode: Experiment with different blend modes to achieve various effects.

While the Layer Styles method is the most efficient, alternative approaches exist:

Converting to Shape: For more control, convert your text layer into a shape layer. Then, you can modify the stroke using the Shape tools' options bar. This allows for precise adjustments and avoids rounded corners sometimes seen with the Layer Style Stroke. This approach is useful if you need fine-tuned control over the outline's appearance.
Rasterizing and Using Other Tools: You can rasterize your text layer (right-click the layer and select “Rasterize Type”) and then use tools like the brush tool to add your own outline manually. This offers maximal flexibility but requires more time and skill.

Rounded Corners: If you notice rounded corners on your outline, try the "Convert to Shape" method described above. This provides sharper corners.
Layer Visibility: Ensure your text layer's fill is visible. If the fill is turned off, only the stroke will be visible.

Remember to save your work frequently! Experiment with different settings to achieve the desired look for your text outline.