Can I convert text into lines that can be extruded in Rhinoceros 3D?

ByCADbrief Staff

Short Answer

Yes — in Rhino 3D, you can convert text into editable curves and then extrude them. The most common professional method is using TextObject with the Output set to curves, then applying ExtrudeCrv. This works well for logos, signs, and cut files. Limitation: some fonts create messy or open outlines.

What You Need to Know Before

Warning: not every font converts cleanly into usable closed curves. Script fonts, SHX-style single-line fonts, and poorly built TrueType fonts can produce overlapping, open, or self-intersecting outlines that fail during extrusion.

How to Convert Text into Lines That Can Be Extruded in Rhino 3D

  • Command: TextObject

  • Shortcut: No default shortcut/alias in standard Rhino installs

  • Quick Steps:

    1. Run TextObject from the command line or use Curve > Text > Text Object.
    2. Enter your text, choose the font, and set Output = Curves. Keep Grouped enabled if you want letters managed together.
    3. Click OK, then run ExtrudeCrv on the resulting closed curves to create 3D geometry.

Variables & Settings

  • Key Setting: Output = Curves

  • Expert Setting: this option creates real curve geometry instead of annotation text. If you leave the output as surfaces or dots are introduced by the font, your result may not behave as expected for downstream editing, joining, or solid extrusion.

Why it Fails

  • Cause 1 (Geometry): the font generates open curves, overlapping loops, or self-intersections, so the profile is not valid for a clean extrusion or solid creation.

  • Cause 2 (layers/Locks): the text or resulting curves are placed on a locked layer, or object snaps and selection filters prevent you from selecting all letter outlines.

  • Cause 3 (Command/Logic): you created annotation text instead of curve objects, or attempted to extrude text before converting it to curves with TextObject.

Quick Fix & Best Practice

  • Quick Fix: run SelOpenCrv to find open letter outlines, then use Join or CloseCrv before ExtrudeCrv.
  • Manager’s Verdict: use TextObject with curve output for fabrication, branding, engraving, and cnc prep; avoid complex decorative fonts unless you check and clean the outlines first.

FAQ

Can I extrude normal text directly in Rhino?
No, standard text should be converted to curves or surfaces first.

Which font type works best for extrusion?
Clean TrueType or OpenType fonts usually work best.

Can I make solid 3D letters from the curves?
Yes, use ExtrudeCrv and enable solid output when the curves are closed.

.

Related Posts: