Warp: Controlled DistortionThe Warp effect is one of several distortion functions in Illustrator's arsenal. You can use Warp to apply any of 15 different preset distortions to any object, group, or layer.Chapter 9 for detailed information on Illustrator's other distortion features, as well as a featured match-up sidebar of those features as they compare to the Warp effect. |
Figure 7.85. The little icons that appear to the left of each Warp effect help you understand what each option actually does.

What If . . . You Apply the Warp Effect to 3D Text?
A powerful way to accentuate a logo or a headline is to add a 3D Extrude effect to text. Because 3D is a Live Effect, there is no need to first convert text to outlines. Adding a Warp effect to 3D text can take things to the next level and opens a world of possibilities. Try it:
1. | Choose the Type tool and click a blank area on the artboard to create a Point Type object. |
2. | Using your keyboard, type the word SPECTACULAR . |
3. | Set your text to 36-point Myriad Bold, and specify a fill of 25K and a stroke of 60K. |
4. | Using the Selection tool, select the text and choose Effect > 3D > Extrude & Bevel. |
5. | The default settings are fine for this exercise, so click the OK button to apply the effect (Figure 7.86 ).Figure 7.86. When you've applied the 3D effect, you'll notice that the extrude color is the darker stroke color that you specified earlier.![]() |
6. | With the text still selected, choose Effect > Warp > Arc. |
7. | Specify a Bend value of 30% and click OK to apply the effect (Figure 7.87 ).Figure 7.87. Applying a Warp effect to the 3D text combines the two effects for a truly spectacular result.![]() |
Of course, you can use the Type tool to edit the text as neededboth the 3D and the Warp effects update accordingly. Turning on Smart Guides makes it easier to select the text on the artboard.