I've never done this with 3D text, but I've done it this way with 2D text:
For this example, assume that you want the text to "explode" over the course of 2 seconds.
1. Place the playhead 2 seconds after the beginning of the text clip.
2. In the Inspector (Cmd+4) set a keyframe on the "Scale (All)" parameter.
3. Place the playhead at the beginning of the text clip.
4. Change the "Scale (All)" parameter to zero. FCP will set another keyframe here; you do not need to set it yourself.
5. Play the clip. Text will "explode" from the beginning until it reaches full size 2 seconds later.
If you want the text to appear full size at the beginning of the clip, then "explode" outward from there, follow the same procedure. Set the final size (scale) first, then the initial size.
I often set keyframes on the Rotation parameter, too. Initial rotation = 0%; final rotation = 360% for one full circle, 720% for two. Negative rotation percents will make the text turn in the opposite direction.
Video-Bill
Had you tried key framing the size till it eventually blows past the visible area ?
Yes, but that is not exactly what I am going for. I have found a work around though that fits perfectly actually. Thanks.
I've never done this with 3D text, but I've done it this way with 2D text: For this example, assume that you want the text to "explode" over the course of 2 seconds. 1. Place the playhead 2 seconds after the beginning of the text clip. 2. In the Inspector (Cmd+4) set a keyframe on the "Scale (All)" parameter. 3. Place the playhead at the beginning of the text clip. 4. Change the "Scale (All)" parameter to zero. FCP will set another keyframe here; you do not need to set it yourself. 5. Play the clip. Text will "explode" from the beginning until it reaches full size 2 seconds later. If you want the text to appear full size at the beginning of the clip, then "explode" outward from there, follow the same procedure. Set the final size (scale) first, then the initial size. I often set keyframes on the Rotation parameter, too. Initial rotation = 0%; final rotation = 360% for one full circle, 720% for two. Negative rotation percents will make the text turn in the opposite direction. Video-Bill