Transforming Type into Vector Shapes and Paths in Photoshop

By default, regular type created with the Type tool is vector-based type, not bit-mapped, rasterized type. But you can also convert regular type (each character) to individual vector shapes. The individual characters then become shapes defined by vector masks. You can edit the shapes like any shapes created with the shape tools, by manipulating anchor points and straight and curved segments. And you can also convert regular type to work paths where each character becomes a path, editable like any other path with the selection arrows and pen tools. Type is usually converted into a path in order to create a clipping path based on the type.

In order to retain the vector properties of regular text, you must select the Include Vector Data option in the Save dialog box. Otherwise, Photoshop rasterizes the text when you save it. So again, you can convert regular nonrasterized vector type to Photoshop line/curve-oriented shapes in the form of a vector mask or work path. You convert type to vector shapes and paths in order to edit it with the Pen tools. Here are the ways to do that:

- To convert type to an editable work path, choose Layer-->Type-->Create Work Path. (You can also choose Make Work Path in the Paths palette option menu.)
- To convert type to shapes, choose Layer-->Type-->➪Convert to Shapes.

Here are the chief things to know about type converted into a shape or path:
- Like type layers, you can resize it without producing jagged diagonal lines.
- You can edit the shape of the characters, but you cannot edit the text itself.
- You must rasterize the converted type before you can merge it with pixel-based layers or apply special effects with filters. You can apply layer styles to the converted type, however.
- If you have converted your type into a shape, it becomes a vector mask exactly like other vector masks in Photoshop, and you can edit the shape of the characters by using the pen tools.

Rasterizing type the other way
In addition to rasterizing a type layer in the usual way, you can also rasterize it by merging it with a non-type layer. For example, if your type layer appears immediately above a text layer that has already been rasterized, you can merge the layers by pressing Ctrl+E (Ô+E on the Mac). You may also come across the opportunity to rasterize a type layer because Photoshop reminds you to. Some commands, for example, particularly filters, operate only on pixels. When you try to use them, you may see a warning dialog box. Often, the dialog box includes an option for immediately converting the type layer to raster form.