How is a Compound Path created in Adobe® InDesign®?

Compound paths can be used to InDesign to create effects that formerly only graphic programs could do. A compound path is created from two or more closed paths and is used to add transparent holes to shapes or letters, when text is converted to outlines or when a gradient or image is added to multiple paths.

To create the letter on a shape example:

• Draw the circle using the Ellipse tool and fill it with Black (or another color).
• Draw a Text box and type a letter.
  • Make the letter the same color as the shape.
• Click on the letter with the Selection tool.
• Go to Type > Create Outlines.
• Drag the letter on top of the circle with the Selection tool.
• Select the circle and the letter with the Selection tool.
• To create the effect:
  • InDesign CS4 & CS3: Choose Object > Paths > Make Compound Path.
  • InDesign CS2 & CS: Choose Object > Compound Paths > Make.
  • Holes appear where the paths overlap.
• To break the compound path:
  • InDesign CS4 & CS3:  Go to Object > Paths > Release Compound Path.
  • InDesign CS2 & CS:  Go to Object > Compound Paths > Release.

To create the photo in a compound path example:

• Draw six squares with the Rectangle tool.
  • Add a stroke if needed with the Stroke palette.
• Select all six squares with the Selection tool.
  • If there is nothing else on the page, go to Edit> Select All.
• To create the compound path:
  • InDesign CS4 & CS3: Choose Object > Paths > Make Compound Path.
  • InDesign CS2 & CS: Choose Object > Compound Paths > Make.

• To import a photo or graphic, with the compound path still selected, go to File > Place.
• Make sure Replace Selected Item is checked.
• Double click on your photo or graphic.

• To reposition the photo or graphic, select the Position  tool.
  • Click on the Direct Selection tool and choose the Position tool from the fly-out menu.
  • Click on the image and drag to move the photo or graphic.