Curve Text in Photoshop (Warp Text and Type on a Path)
Curved text can be created in seconds using Photoshop’s Warp Text feature, or more precisely by typing along a path or shape. This tutorial covers both methods so you can quickly arc standalone text or wrap it around circles and custom paths. You’ll also learn how to fine-tune bend and distort settings for clean results.
Step-by-step instructions
Create your text
Select the Type Tool (T) and click to add a text layer.
Type your text and, if needed, adjust spacing in Window → Character (e.g., Leading).
Apply Warp Text (quick curve)
Click the Warp Text icon in the Options bar or go to Type → Warp Text…
Choose a style (e.g., Arc) and adjust Bend to set curvature.
Refine with Horizontal Distortion and Vertical Distortion as needed.
Commit the warp
Click OK to apply the effect.
Click the checkmark in the Options bar to commit changes.
Create an ellipse path for circular text
Select the Ellipse Tool (U) and draw an ellipse.
Choose the Type Tool (T), hover over the ellipse edge until the cursor shows a path icon, then click to type along the ellipse.
Type on a custom path with the Pen Tool
Select the Pen Tool (P) and draw a smooth path around your object; avoid too many corners.
In the Options bar, set to Shape to generate a shape from the path.
Choose the Type Tool (T), hover over the shape edge until the cursor changes, then click and type.
Click the checkmark to commit and hide the shape layer if you don’t want it visible.
