BtD #014: Unlock a Realm of Imaging Possibility with PowerPoint's Merge Shapes
Nestled within PowerPoint's palette of design tools lies the understated potential of the Merge Shapes commands. When tapped, these commands become a conduit for creative expression in presentation design, custom graphics, and unique slide enhancements.
The true gem discovered within the Merge Shapes functionality however, is not because of what it does for shapes (oddly enough). The crown jewel these commands unlock is the potential it opens up within the realm of image transformation, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary with grace and a touch of panache.
The Basics of Merge Shapes
Merge Shapes includes five commands that allow you to combine, intersect, or subtract shapes and images in various ways, each with its own unique function:
Union: Melds multiple shapes into one cohesive unit, perfect for creating new, complex designs out of simple geometric forms.
Combine: Carves out the intersection of selected shapes, leaving you with a single, intricate shape that incorporates elements of both originals.
Fragment: Splits combined shapes into individual components, offering a way to create detailed, multipart graphics.
Intersect: Keeps only the area where selected shapes overlap, allowing for precise creation of shared spaces.
Subtract: Uses one shape to cut away from another to craft negative space in your designs.
The variations are due to the order in which the shapes are selected.
Accessing Merge Shapes
To use these commands, simply select two or more shapes (or a shape and an image), navigate to the "Shape Format" tab, and find "Merge Shapes" on the left side of the ribbon.
the HeArt of the Merge
The ‘wounded’ heart designs:
Creating a heart shape & enter text.
Create a lightning bolt shape & position.
Select the heart first, then the lightening bolt & use the ‘Subtract’ command.
Pro tips: 1) This works with any shape or with a shape and an image. 2) Both the heart and lightning bolt are part of PowerPoint’s standard shape library.
Fragmenting
I probably shouldn’t play favorites when it comes to PowerPoint’s tools but I confess, I do have them. Fragmenting is one of the five that rank at the top of my most 🩶’d PowerPoint tools. Beyond the playful uses you see below like fragmenting typography, the command can be extremely useful in creating custom image-shapes for one-of-a-kind slide designs.
Like these other Merge techniques, simply select from back to front. Select the Shape Format tab; select Merge Shapes & select Fragment.
This effect was created with a text box placed overtop an image.
The same trick also works with text boxes and shapes or shapes with shapes.
A SmartArt Fantasy
A Little Strategy
Video with Shape Overlay
Precision in Image Sizing and Cropping
Precision Shape Cropping:
Create & Position Shape on top of Image.
Select From back to front - 1) Image; 2) Shape.
Select Shape Format tab.
Select Merge Shapes.
Select Intersect.
Pro tip: Tired of looking at stretched photos? ‘Lock the Aspect Ratio' while resizing to maintain uniformity.
Getting Tricky with Custom Graphics
Custom graphics are within your reach with a little curiosity and experimentation. Try this:
Insert an icon onto your image and size (Fig. 1).
Select the icon and the Graphics Format Tab (Fig. 2).
Select the Convert to Shape command.
Then, follow Steps 1-5 in the previous section.
Fig. 1
Fig. 2: Graphics Format tab
Beyond
The Merge Shapes functionality is a portal to boundless creative exploration within PowerPoint. Achieving proficiency in these commands unveils an expansive realm of design possibilities. I encourage you to delve into these capabilities, weaving them into the fabric of your upcoming presentation endeavors with finesse and innovation!
Thank you for joining me 🤍!