Guest Author - Chris Curtis

Here is another technique to add a new spark to your WordArt text. Using pictures as a fill object in your WordArt can give you more textured effect choices than those currently provided by the MS Office Suite. Use textures such as wheat, barley, stones, wildflowers, flags, sunsets, waterfalls, surf etc. Use your imagination. Try different ideas out. If it doesn't work, you can always reverse your selections or choose others.

• Right click on the WordArt object and select Format WordArt from the shortcut menu. The format WordArt dialog box will be displayed
• Click on the Fill | Color dropdown and select Fill Effects to display the Fill Effects dialog box
• Select the Picture Tab
• Click on the Select Picture Button to browse for the picture you would like to use as a fill in your WordArt
• Once you have selected a picture from your picture gallery, click on Insert.
• Click on OK to close the Fill Effects dialog box after you have made your picture selection
• Click on OK to close the Format WordArt Dialog Box

Take the time to experiment with different picture choices. I think you'll be delighted with some of the creative results.