How to Outline Text using Adobe Photoshop CS

This is an fun and easy way to add an outline to a title or heading for a print project or for your website.

Step One

Open Adobe Photoshop. Select 'New' under the File menu and a box will open. Set the (1) width and (2) height so that your text will fit. Remember if your image is to be used for the web use the (3) RGB color setting or select CMYK for print. Under the (4) Background Content you have the choices of white, color or transparent. When setting background color keep in mind the colors you are using for your text and for outlining. You want enough contrast for it to be seen. After making your selections, click OK.

Step Two

In the layers palette on the lower right-hand side of the screen double click on the background layer and name it layer 1. Select the text tool from the tools palette and choose your font and font-size. Type your text on the canvas. (I used Adobe Caslon Pro for text and the size is 60.) On the layers palette, place your cursor over the text you typed and click on it while at the same time you press the Ctrl key. You will now see that your text has been selected. Then add a new layer by clicking on the folder icon next to the little garbage can at the bottom of the layers palette.

Step Three

Now lets add the outline to your text. Under Edit select stroke. A box will open and you can then select the width of your stroke and the color. I chose 2 pixels for width and red for color. You can experiment with both to decide what works best for your project. After you have made your selections click OK and the box will close. Press the Ctrl key and the letter 'x' to deselect the layer. Be sure to save your work!

Your comments are welcome. Thank you.