I am trying to create text on a path that also cuts through a graphic. the below link is a great example of what i am trying to do. I can get the text on a path, but can't figure out how to cut through the graphic. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
http://www.backcountryoutlet.com/outlet/detail_images.html?detail_code=SPC0185&item_title=Spacecraft%20Apple%20Strudel%20T-Shirt%20-%20Short-Sleeve%20-%20Mens%27&swatches=BK%2cBL%2c&swatch_titles=Black%2cBlue%2c&swatches_with_images=3&default_swatch=SPC0185%2fBL&cat_id=11&subcat_id=100000006&pg_id=100000064

There are probably a few different ways to do this, and it's probablly your personal choice as to what works best.

What I would do is break the object (the apple in your example) into 2 objects by manipulating nodes on the path that makes the apple. Then I would slide them apart and place my text on path in the space.

Another way might be to put a rectangle, or other appropriate shape (in your example, like a banner or flag which contains the text) behind the text on path, and on top of the object (apple). IOW, using either Layers or Z-Order.