How to Convert Text to Shapes for Node Editing

Converting text into vector shapes allows designers to manipulate typography beyond standard font constraints. By transforming live text into path-based geometry, you gain direct access to individual anchor points and bezier handles, enabling custom letterform manipulation, logo customization, and unique graphic treatments. This guide outlines the standard process for converting text into editable vector shapes across major graphic design and image editing software, along with practical techniques for manipulating the resulting nodes.

1. Create and Finalize Your Base Text

Begin by typing out your text using the standard Type tool. Select your desired font family, weight, and size. Because converting text to shapes is a destructive process—meaning the text will no longer be editable as dynamic typography—ensure spelling, capitalization, and general proportions are correct before moving to the next step.

2. Convert the Text Layer to Vector Outlines

Depending on the software you are using, the command to convert text to vector paths varies slightly:

  • Adobe Illustrator: Select the text object with the Selection Tool (V), right-click and choose Create Outlines, or use the shortcut Ctrl+Shift+O (Windows) / Cmd+Shift+O (macOS).
  • Adobe Photoshop: Right-click the text layer in the Layers panel and select Convert to Shape. This turns the raster/type layer into a vector mask containing editable paths.
  • Figma: Select the text layer, right-click, and choose Flatten, or press Ctrl+E (Windows) / Cmd+E (macOS).
  • Inkscape: Select the text object, go to the top menu, and select Path > Object to Path, or press Shift+Ctrl+C.

3. Ungroup the Shapes (Optional)

Most software automatically groups the resulting letter shapes together. If you need to isolate or rearrange individual letters:

  • Right-click the object and select Ungroup, or use the shortcut Ctrl+Shift+G (Windows) / Cmd+Shift+G (macOS).
  • Repeat this step if compound paths or nested groups remain.

4. Activate the Node Selection Tool

To manipulate the individual anchor points, switch from your standard selection tool to the dedicated node editing tool:

  • Adobe Illustrator & Photoshop: Select the Direct Selection Tool (A shortcut, represented by a white arrow).
  • Inkscape: Select the Edit paths by nodes tool (N shortcut).
  • Figma: Double-click the vector shape or select the Edit Object button in the top toolbar.

5. Edit and Refine the Nodes

Once the nodes become visible as small squares or circles along the outline of your letters, you can begin custom modifications:

  • Move Nodes: Click and drag an individual point, or hold Shift while clicking to select and move multiple nodes simultaneously.
  • Adjust Curves: Click an anchor point to reveal its directional handles (bezier handles). Drag the handles to change the curvature, angle, and tension of adjacent lines.
  • Add or Remove Nodes: Use the Pen tool or specialized node tools to click directly on a path segment to add a new point, or click an existing node to delete it without breaking the path.
  • Convert Point Types: Toggle points between smooth curves and sharp corners using the anchor conversion tools in your application's properties panel.