Convert 2D text to 3D

You can easily convert a 2D text object in your project to 3D text. This process, called extruding, replaces the Face and Outline text settings with depth, weight, edge, lighting, and material settings designed to simulate realistic three-dimensional objects. You can also convert a 3D text object back to 2D text.

Convert a text object from 2D to 3D

  1. In the Layers list, Timeline, or Canvas, select a 2D text object.

  2. In the Appearance pane or Format pane of the Text Inspector, select the 3D Text activation checkbox.

    3D Text activation checkbox in the Appearance pane of the Text Inspector

    The selected text is converted to basic 3D text, and given a smooth, white plastic texture. The Face and Outline controls in the Appearance pane are hidden, and the 3D Text, Lighting, and Material controls are enabled.

    To give basic 3D text a more dynamic look, you can quickly apply one of the ready-made 3D text styles that come with Motion. These preset text styles artfully combine font, depth, and texture settings. Or, if you want to create a custom look, you can apply textures and finishes available in the Motion Library.

Convert a text object from 2D to a preset 3D style

You can also convert 2D text to any of the preset 3D text styles available in Motion. In addition to converting 2D text to 3D, preset 3D text styles apply a specific font, color, and 3D material to create a particular text treatment.

  1. In the Layers list, Timeline, or Canvas, select a 2D text object.

  2. In the Text Inspector, click the pop-up menu at the top of the Appearance pane or Format pane, choose 3D Styles, then choose a preset style from the submenu.

    Inspector showing 3D Styles pop-up menu

    The text is converted to 3D text in the style you chose. The Face and Outline controls in the Appearance pane are hidden, and the 3D Text, Lighting, and Material controls are enabled.

Convert a text object from 3D to 2D

  1. In the Layers list, Timeline, or Canvas, select a 3D text object.

  2. In the Appearance pane of the Text Inspector, deselect the 3D Text checkbox.

    3D Text activation checkbox in the Appearance pane of the Text Inspector

    The text is converted to 2D text. The Lighting and Material controls in the Appearance pane are replaced by the Face and Outline sections, and the 3D Text section is dimmed.

The icon in the Layers list indicates whether a text object is 2D or 3D.

Layers list showing 3D text icon