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Using Warp effects


    Using preset warp effects, you can distort or deform Illustrator artwork, including paths, text, meshes, blends, and raster images. Because warp effects are live effects, available from the Effect menu, you can apply a warp to your artwork and then continue to manipulate the artwork at any time. (See Using effects.) Once you apply the Warp effect, the warp appears in the Appearance palette, where you can save it as part of a style, select it for modifications, expand it, or delete it. It also appears in the Layers palette, which displays the object as having an appearance applied. (See Working with appearance attributes and Using the Layers palette.)

    Expanding a warped object removes the warp effect while leaving the object in its warped state.

To apply a Warp effect:

  1. Select the object or group of objects that you want to warp.
  2. Choose Effect > Warp, and then choose one of the predefined warp shapes.
  3. Select either Horizontal or Vertical to specify which axis the bending option affects.
  4. Specify the amount of bending to apply.
  5. Specify the amount of Horizontal and Vertical distortion to apply, and then click OK.

To remove a Warp effect:

    In the Appearance palette, drag the warp object to the trash.

To expand a warp effect:

    Select the warped object, and choose Object > Expand Appearance.