How to convert text to outlines in Adobe Illustrator

Do you need to convert the text in your design to outlines? Don't worry, it is not as complicated as it sounds. In this video, we show you how easy it is!

If you’d rather read, you can find step-by-step instructions on how to convert text to outlines, including why it even matters, below.

Step-by-step instructions

It is time to convert your text to outlines once you are happy with your design and do not want to make any more changes. 

Once you convert your text to outlines, you can no longer edit the wording. So be sure to save the original, editable file if you want to revisit and edit the design later. 

Step 1: Select any text in your design 

Step 2: Right-click and select “Create Outlines”

This simple step changes the font-specific text elements to universal vector shapes. When you now send this design to a printer or designer, you can be sure that your text won’t change. 

Why does this matter?

Okay, but why do we need to do this? 

The simple answer: Fonts. 

The longer answer: There are thousands of fonts available online. You can not guarantee that other designers or printing companies will have your chosen font installed. 

If somebody does not have your font installed, it will modify your artwork’s text to a font that is installed. 

This can drastically change the look of your design.

Changing the fonts to outlines is not something we can do for you because we might not have the correct font installed. 

But if you have problems converting your font, you can:

  • Send us the name and location of your font 

  • Share your Canva design link with us. More on that here

Quite simple, isn’t it? If you have any other questions or concerns before submitting your design, please feel free to contact our experts here.

Back to blog