In this tutorial, you will learn how to create 3D text in Illustrator then transfer it to Photoshop to apply the effects. You’ll learn how to apply styles to regular 3D text to create a stunning design.

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Preview of Final Result

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Dazzling 3D Text Effect Photoshop Tutorial

When ever you create any effects, use the action palette to store the functions because if you need the same effect again it will be easier for you to get the same result.

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Step 1 – Create a New Document

Open Photoshop. Choose File > New or press Ctrl/Command + N. I’m using wallpaper size of 1440px (width) X 900px (height) but you can use any size you wish.

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Step 2 – Creation of 3D Text

We are going to start creating 3D text with the help of Illustrator. First you need to type the text in Illustrator. You can use any text you want. I’m just using the text “FX”. Open Illustrator, select the Type Tool and write the text. After typing change the font to “Hobo Std Medium“.

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Step 3 – Coloring the Text

Change the color of the text. For “F” use blue (#094569) and for “X” use dark orange (#AB7D1B). Your image should look like the one below.

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Step 4 – Adding 3D Effect to the Text

You need to create 3D solid text. To do that go to Menu > Effect > 3D > Extrude & Bevel…

Set the dialog similarly as on the picture below.

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Step 5 – Placing the Background Color

Once you´re done with the 3D text move back to Photoshop and change the background color to blue (#000b12).

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Step 6 – Placing 3D Text in Photoshop

In this step you’re going to place the 3D text in Photoshop. Copy the text from Illustrator and paste it in Photoshop. Select the layer with the text, right click on it and choose Rasterize Layer.

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Step 7 – Separating Text

Now you are going to separate the text into two parts. Select the Rectangular Marquee Tool (M) and make selection of the letter “X”. Press Ctrl + X to cut and Ctrl + V to paste the letter. Align the text accordingly.

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Step 8 – Dodge Tool Settings

You need to create highlights on the text. Select the Dodge Tool (O) from tools and follow the brush settings as you can see in the image below.

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Step 9 – Adding Highlights

Paint with the Dodge Tool over the areas you want to highlight. You can get inspiration from the image bellow.

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Step 10 -Adding More Highlights

Follow the step 9 and create more highlight spots on the circled areas.

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Step 11 – Adding Shadows

Once you´re done with highlights, you need to create shadows on the opposite side of the shape. Select the Burn Tool (O) from the tools and paint the shadows.

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Step 12 – Adding More Shadows

Follow the step 11 and continue with adding even more shadows into the circled areas.

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Step 13 – Increasing Intensity

To add more contrast to the text select the Dodge Tool (O). Increase the brush size to 800px and click over the whole letter “F” and then over the “X” to get the same result as in the image below.

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Step 14 – Adding Corner Spotlights

Now you are going to add some spotlights to make the corners of the text shining. Select the Brush Tool (B). Select soft round with Master Diameter on 90px. Choose white foreground color and create a new layer. Paint over the corners of the text. See image below how it should look.