Expert: Kevin Stohlmeyer - 2/7/2009

Question
I'm basically trying to create a wheel chart of some sort. My problem is
dealing with the paths and area type. What I want to do is have something
much like a pie chart, with text inside the sectioned fields, in this case I'd
need the pie to be 8 parts. What I can't seem to figure out is how to have the
text run along the same circular path, all the way day and throughout the
field. I'm looking to somehow create a rounded baseline grid if you will or
several equally spaced circles inside one another, that correspond to the
curve of my dominant circle. So, the text inside would not only tilt to the
correct degrees of each section, but also follow the same curve in each field
for a smoother appearance. I'm dealing with a lot of text, and even getting
more than one line break to stay consistent with the path seems challenging.
I hope this makes the slightest amount of sense.


Answer
August,

The easiest way to do what you are asking is to create the graphic on one layer of your document, then your type on a second layer. You will have to create a series of concentric circles There is no way to create a circular baseline grid.

An easy way to create the circles is to create your largest circle first, then copy and edit>paste in front. Then use the transform palette to change the size. You can use the align palette if you need to center all your circles. Then use the type on a path tool and input your text, unfortunately one line at a time.

You can try to create a paragraph of text and use the warp effects (set to arch) and see how that works, but otherwise this will be the only way it will work.

Thanks

Kevin