How-to: Use clipping masks for typography

 Feb 15, 2017

Step One: Create a new document in Photoshop. If your document is going to be used on the web, I recommend setting the resolution to “72 pixels/centimeter”. Next, type out your word(s). I chose “Title”.

Note: You could also use this tutorial for blog headers, as text to lay on top of photos in posts, etc.!

Step Two: Create a new layer ON TOP OF your text layer. You can create a new layer either by going to Layer >> New >> Layer (in the top menu) OR by clicking the thing that looks like a piece of paper next to the trash can in the bottom right of your layers panel. Your new layer will be blank (white). Then, you can draw whatever you want in that new layer. I chose to use the gradient tool.

Step Three: Make sure your new layer is highlighted in the layers panel (like mine is).
Then, go to Layer >> Create Clipping Mask.
Keyboard Shortcut: ALT+CRTL+G

Step Four: Alternatively, instead of creating a new layer in step two, you could drag a photo or another graphic on top of your text (just make sure it’s on top of your text in the layers panel). In the example below, I used a colourful picture in the document.

Then, when you create a clipping mask, your words will take on the effect of the image you’re using, which makes the words look multi-coloured!

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About the Author:

Alice Antonsen  

Alice is one of New Horizons’ most experienced Desktop Applications trainers. She is qualified with a Diploma of Business (Computing) and a Diploma of Information Technology. Since joining New Horizons in 2006, Alice has achieved the prestigious status of a certified Microsoft Office Master and for the past 4 years, has been placed in the Top 25 Desktop Applications trainers for New Horizons Worldwide. Throughout her career, she has gained a wealth of knowledge and experience in providing training to individuals and groups of varying skill levels. Alice delivers each training session with great care and consideration ensuring each one is tailored to the learning needs of her students.

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