How to subtract text from a shape in Adobe Illustrator?

Question

I've created a rectangle, and I want to cut some text out of it, so that the text will appear as the background pattern. I expected to be able to achieve this by selecting the rectangle and the text, using `Pathfinder > Minus Front` - however this hasn't worked. I've tried searching for the solution everywhere and can't find an answer.Can anyone tell me where I'm going wrong?**How do I cut out / minus / subtract text from a shape / object in Adobe Illustrator?**

Answer 1

Hi!

You're close, but you have to first change your text/font to a vector object. It will continue to be an editable font until you do this:

Select your text > Text (drop down menu) > Create Outlines

Now you'll be able to select both objects and use Pathfinder as you describe.

Cheers,

John