/ How to

How to Curve and Bend Text in Microsoft Word

Microsoft Word offers several methods to curve, bend, warp, or transform text to create more visually interesting designs. Curved or circular text can be useful for headers, titles, callouts, wrapping text around images, and more.

Using WordArt for Curved Text

One of the easiest ways to curve text in Word is by using WordArt. Here’s how:

  1. On the Insert tab, click WordArt and select a style that has the curve or shape you want.
  2. Type your text.
  3. With the text selected, go to the Format tab > Text Effects > Transform to change the curve, angle, or warp effect.

You can make text circle a shape completely by selecting “Circle” under Follow Path and dragging the sizing handles. WordArt is great for adding some flair to titles and headlines.

Applying Transform Effects to Regular Text

You can also curve regular body text without converting it to WordArt first:

  1. Select the text you want to curve.
  2. Go to Home > Font > Text Effects > Transform and select a curved style.

This approach gives you more control over text formatting compared to WordArt. You can use it to curve a single word in a paragraph, for example.

Curving Text in Text Boxes

Adding text inside a text box or shape provides the most flexibility for curving and bending text:

  1. Insert a text box from the Insert tab.
  2. Type your text.
  3. With the text box selected, use the Format tab > Text Effects > Transform options to curve the text.

You can also follow these steps to curve text around images or other objects:

  1. Insert the image.
  2. Right click the image > Wrap Text > Tight.
  3. Drag the text box handles to bend the text around the image.

This takes more work but allows you to closely fit text around shapes and objects.

Tips for Curving Text

  • For the best results, use large font sizes when curving text in Word.
  • Simple sans-serif fonts like Arial, Calibri, and Verdana work best, rather than serif or script fonts.
  • Avoid excessive warping, as too much distortion can make text harder to read. Subtle curves look more professional.
  • Make sure to proofread carefully after applying effects, since they can disrupt formatting.
  • Use curves sparingly. They work well for titles and headers but usually aren’t appropriate for body text.
  • For formal business documents, limit curved text, as it can look unprofessional if overused.

Animating Curved Text (Office 365)

If you have Office 365, you can make curved WordArt animate on the page:

  1. Create the curved WordArt as explained above.
  2. Select the WordArt shape.
  3. Go to Format > Text Effects > Animation and select an animation like “Float” or “Slant.”

Animations can make curved text more eye-catching on posters, flyers, invitations, and other graphics-focused documents. But use them judiciously, as too much animation may seem distracting or unprofessional.

Removing Curved Text Effects

To instantly remove a curved text effect:

  1. Select the curved text.
  2. Go to Home > Font > Clear Formatting.

This will straighten the text and remove the effects. Or to undo just the curve:

  1. Select the text.
  2. Go to Format > Text Effects > Transform > None.

Experiment with Microsoft Word’s text effects to create stylish documents that stand out! But be careful not to go overboard with excessive chart junk. Subtle use of curves, animations, and other effects goes a long way.

Related Posts