Label Planet
Here is a refresher on creating Mirrored Label Templates in Word.
We recently began stocking a Transparent Static Cling product and produced a short guide to creating labels that can be stuck onto the inside of a window and read from the outside. We are in the process of creating bespoke templates that feature pre-prepared text boxes for mirror writing to make this even easier.
However, if you want to do it yourself, here's the steps you need to follow:
Word 2007 and earlier versions
- You can create mirrored images and text using the “Flip Tool”.
- Click on your image, shape, or WordArt.
- Select the “Format” tab at the top of the page.
- In the “Arrange” group, click on “Rotate” and then “Flip Vertical”.
NB: you must insert text using WordArt as these versions of Word cannot flip the text in a text box correctly.
Word 2010 and later versions
- You can create mirrored images and text using the “3D-Rotation Tool”.
- Click on your item and select the “Format” tab at the top of the page.
- MIRROR IMAGES: In the “Picture Styles” group, click on “Picture Effects” then “3D-Rotation” then “3D-Rotation Options”.
- MIRROR TEXT: In the “Shape Styles” group, click on “Shape Effects” then “3D-Rotation” then “3D-Rotation Options”.
Amend the value of “X” to 180°.
Note for text boxes: the text box may now display a background colour. To remove this simply click on the “Shape Fill” option in the “Shape Styles” group and select “No Fill”.
Remember:
- Your printer may have a mirror image function built in, so always check your printer properties first!
- To create mirrored text, it HAS to be contained in either a text box (2010 onwards only) or created in Word Art.
You can find out which version of Word you have by selecting “Start” (bottom left of your screen), selecting “All Programs”, and opening the “Microsoft Office” folder – the programs should be listed along with their version. - These functions may not work if you try to use a file that has been created in a different version of Word to the one that you are using to edit. For example, if you try to use a 2003 Word file in Word 2010, the 3D-Rotation Tool may not work. For Word 2003 and earlier versions, the file extension should be .doc. For Word 2007 and later versions, the file extension should be .docx. You can find the file extension by right clicking on the file and selecting “Properties” – the file extension will be displayed under the file name as “Type of file”.