Making Text Stand Out in Canva

Learning Objectives

• Master text formatting options in Canva
• Apply shadow effects to improve text visibility
• Use spacing and creative effects to enhance readability

Introduction

Text that blends into the background defeats the purpose of your design. This chapter covers the essential techniques to make your text pop, whether you're creating social media posts, business cards, or presentations. You'll learn how to use shadows, adjust spacing, and apply creative effects to ensure your message gets noticed.

Lessons

Text Formatting Basics

Start with the fundamentals. Good text formatting makes the difference between a design that works and one that falls flat.

Select your text box and you'll see formatting options in the toolbar:

• Font: Choose something that matches your design's mood
• Size: Bigger for headlines, smaller for details
• Colour: Must contrast with your background

Steps:

1. Click your text box
2. Use the toolbar to change font, size, and colour
3. Test different combinations until the text feels right

Most people skip the contrast check. Hold your design at arm's length – can you still read the text clearly?

Adding Shadow Effects

Shadows create depth and make text readable on tricky backgrounds. This is the trick that separates amateur designs from professional ones.

Steps:

1. Select your text box
2. Click "Effects" in the toolbar
3. Choose "Shadow"
4. Adjust the blur, transparency, and offset to suit your design

A subtle shadow often works better than a heavy one. The goal is readability, not drama.

Adjusting Text Spacing

Cramped text looks unprofessional. Proper spacing makes your design breathe and improves readability significantly.

Steps:

1. Select your text box
2. Click "Spacing" in the toolbar
3. Adjust letter spacing for individual characters
4. Modify line height for multi-line text

When using capital letters, increase letter spacing. Capitals naturally sit closer together and need more room to look balanced.

Creative Text Effects

Creative effects can transform plain text into a focal point. Use them strategically – too many effects create chaos.

Steps:

1. Select your text box
2. Open "Effects"
3. Try options like Neon, Lift, or Hollow
4. Preview each effect before applying

Save bold effects for your most important text. Your design should have one clear hierarchy.

Practice

Create a simple event poster using these techniques:

1. Add a main headline with a shadow effect
2. Use spacing to improve readability
3. Apply one creative effect to the event name
4. Keep body text simple and readable

Focus on making the event name the clear focal point.

FAQs

Can I upload my own fonts in Canva?
Yes, but you need Canva Pro. Go to Brand Kit and upload your font files.

Are shadow effects free in Canva?
Basic shadows are free. Advanced shadow options require Canva Pro.

How do I make text transparent?
Select your text and use the transparency slider in the toolbar. Adjust until you get the right balance.

Why does my text look blurry?
Check your shadow settings. Too much blur or the wrong colour can make text appear fuzzy.

Jargon Buster

Kerning: The space between individual letters. Adjust this to improve how text looks.

Canva Pro: Paid subscription with advanced features including more fonts, effects, and design elements.

Opacity: How see-through an element is. 100% is solid, 0% is invisible.

Text hierarchy: The visual order of importance in your text elements.

Wrap-up

Making text stand out comes down to contrast, spacing, and strategic use of effects. Start with good formatting basics, add shadows when needed, and use creative effects sparingly. Your text should enhance your message, not distract from it.

Next, you'll learn how to incorporate icons and shapes that complement your text, creating cohesive designs that grab attention.

Ready to take your Canva skills further? Join our community of designers at https://www.pixelhaze.academy/membership