This tutorial will show you how to create Area Text, also known as Text in a Path. Area Text allows you to constrain text within the area of a closed path or object. We will create a fictional party invitation for our train enthusiasts club.

Step 1
Create a new Expression document (CTRL + N) or open an existing document (CTRL + O). The background of our invitation is a set of train tracks receding into the distance. We want our invitation text to be displayed between the rails of the train tracks.

Step 2
Setup a boundary for your text by creating a path or object. We’ll use the Bezier Pen tool (B) to draw a flattened pyramid shape between the tracks.

Step 3
There are two ways to create Area Text: Type the text directly inside an object OR combine pre-written text with an object.

Type text directly inside an object
Select the Text tool (T) and Shift + Click on the path. The cursor will change to show the Area Text icon . Now when you type, your text will be constrained within the path boundaries.
Combine pre-written text with an object
With both the block of text and the object selected, choose Objects > Text on Path > Attach Area Text.

Both methods work equally well to produce our desired effect.

Dress it up
We added a title, a drop shadow effect on the text, and a gradient to complete our invitation.

Releasing Area Text
To remove your text from an area, select your block of Area Text, and from the main menu choose Objects > Text on Path > Release. Or, you can select your text and cut it (CTRL + X) or delete it (Delete or Backspace).

That’s all there is using Area Text.