Tip #641: The Secret is Blend Modes
… for Apple Final Cut Pro X
Tip #641: The Secret is Blend Modes
Larry Jordan – LarryJordan.com
The secret is blend modes and a compound clip.

Here’s a straight-forward technique to put video inside a text clip, then key the results over a second video clip. And, for extra credit, I’ll show you how to add a drop shadow.
This is a three-layer effect using blend modes and a compound clip.
SETUP
- On the Primary Storyline, put the background. The blue clip, in my screen shot.
- On the layer above that, put the video you want to place inside the text. The glowing orange in my example.
- On the layer above that, on the top layer, put the text.
- Select the Primary Storyline clip and type V to make it invisible.
FILL THE TEXT
- Select the text clip.
- Go to the Video Inspector and set the blend mode for the text clip to Stencil Alpha.
The text is now filled with the image on Layer 2
PUT IT OVER THE BACKGROUND
- Select the background clip and type V to make it visible again.
- Select the text clip and the video on layer 2.
- Go to New > Compound Clip.
- Accept the default name and click OK.
The filled text now appears over the background on the Primary Storyline.
Done!
EXTRA CREDIT
- Select the compound clip.
- Go to Effects > Stylize and apply a drop shadow to the compound clip.
- Adjust until it looks good to you.
How cool!
Bravo
Thank you Larry! Tried it and it worked perfectly, just as you described. I’m enjoying all your Inside Tips, especially those for Final Cut Pro X.