: How to subtract text from a shape in Adobe Illustrator? I've created a rectangle, and I want to cut some text out of it, so that the text will appear as the background pattern. I expected

@Pope1402555

I had the same problem, so I used the "Exclude" button on the Pathfinder palette, instead. That "cut" the text from the rectangle I had made.

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@Caterina889

Why do we need to convert the text to outline (Create Outlines/Convert to Curves)?


Simply type the text using the Type tool
Place the image or create a rectangle filled with a Gradient/Pattern etc.
Send the image or rectangle behind the text
Select both text and image/rectangle and hit: cmd+7 (Mac) or Ctrl+7 (PC) to make it a Compound Path... Done!
You can still edit the text while still in a Compound Path.


Enjoy!

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@Kristi927

Convert to outlines and do pathfinder > merge.

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@Goswami567

Create any shape, then write some text on the shape, select both shape and text by pressing shift key, clik on text and shape ok. Go to the pathfinder and click minus front. your work is over, this can create text cut on shapes.

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@Turnbaugh909

I managed to find a good solution using Illustrator CS5.5.
Like they mentioned earlier in the post, create your filled rectangle. Next place your choice text on top. Then transform text into paths (Type > Create Outlines). Finally select both type and rectangle and Alt+Click 'Minus-Front' command to create a Compound Shape. That should do it!

I added a drop shadow for a nice 3D effect on my button. (Effect > Stylize > Drop Shadow)

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@Karen819

Sometimes the path direction causes the effect to not be visible. After creating outlines from the text, try selecting the outlined text as well as the rectangle and create a Compound Path via the Object menu.

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@Debbie163

You just need to convert the type into paths first: right-click on the type element and choose Create Outlines. Then select both objects and click the button 'Subtract from Shape Area' in the Pathfinder panel (from version CS6 on the button is worded 'Minus Front'). The text element needs to be above the rectangle – if the text is below, click the 'Minus Back' button instead.

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