Pixels To Print: Convert Type To Outlines

The important thing is to remember to save a non-outlined version first so you can go back and make text edits down the road if needed. Once you outline your type, you can no longer make text changes.

The best method is to send a packaged file with links and fonts included. This removes the need to outline fonts since they’ll be included in the document’s assets. Otherwise you can convert your text to outlines in both Adobe Illustrator and Adobe InDesign.

How to convert text to outlines in Adobe Illustrator:

Using the Selection Tool, select the text you would like to convert. Right click and select “Create Outlines” or go to Type > Create Outlines. Personally, I like to use the keyboard commands Control + A to select everything and then use the Create Outlines command Shift + Control + O and everything in the document will be converted.

How to save a packaged file in Adobe Illustrator:

Go to File > Package. Then select the destination and be sure “Copy Fonts” is selected. If you’re using a typeface from Adobe Fonts the font file will not be included, but since NorthPoint has a subscription to Adobe Creative Cloud we can instantly activate the font.

How to convert text to outlines in Adobe InDesign:

Using the Selection Tool, select the text you would like to convert. Right click and select “Create Outlines.” Personally, I like to use the keyboard commands Control + A to select everything and then use the Create Outlines command Shift + Control + O and everything on the spread or page will be converted.

How to save a packaged file in Adobe InDesign:

Go to File > Package. Under the Fonts tab, you can see all the fonts used in the document. If you’re using a typeface from Adobe Fonts the font file will not be included, but since NorthPoint has a subscription to Adobe Creative Cloud we can instantly activate the font.