by 
Watch the tutorial
Step 1: Apply Wave Warp to your text layer
Create your text with the Type tool so it sits on a layer in the timeline. Then open the Effects panel (Window > Effects), type wave warp into the search box and drag Wave Warp from Video Effects > Distort onto the text layer.
Faster with BetterFX: skip the Effects panel. Press your BetterFX shortcut, type the first letters of Wave Warp and press Enter to apply it to the selected clip. Get BetterFX
Step 2: Set the wave type to Sine
With the text layer selected, open Effect Controls and find Wave Warp. Change Wave Type to Sine. A sine wave gives you the smooth, rounded curve that looks most like a flag in the wind. The other types, such as Square, Triangle and Sawtooth, are worth a try if you want a sharper, more mechanical look.
Step 3: Adjust the wave width
Wave Width controls how long each wave is. In the video it is set to around 1500, but you should use whatever gives the amount of wave you want. A larger value stretches the waves out so only one gentle curve crosses your text. A smaller value packs several waves into the same word. Drag the number left and right and watch the Program Monitor.
Step 4: Set the wave height
Wave Height decides how tall the waves are, so it is the strength of the effect. A small number gives a subtle ripple. A large number throws the letters up and down dramatically. Raise it until the text is as wavy as you like.
Step 5: Speed up the waves
The waves move by themselves, because Wave Speed is already above zero. To make them move faster, increase the Wave Speed value in Effect Controls. Lower it for a slow, floating feel.
Tips
- Use bold, thick fonts. Chunky letters show the wave much better than thin ones.
- Try colour gradients. The tutorial's intro uses a rainbow gradient on the text, which makes the movement even easier to see.
- Combine it with an entrance. For a typed-in reveal first, see our guide to the typewriter text effect in Premiere Pro.
FAQ
Where is Wave Warp in Premiere Pro?
Search for Wave Warp in the Effects panel. It sits in the Distort folder under Video Effects.
Why is my text not moving?
Check that Wave Speed is higher than zero. If it is at zero the wave is frozen in place.
Can I use Wave Warp on video or images, not just text?
Yes. Wave Warp works on any clip, so you can also use it to create a water ripple or a flag-style distortion on footage and graphics.
Want more ready-made looks for your titles? Browse the Ultimate Text Preset Pack and drop animated text straight onto your timeline.
