4 Ways to Create More Interesting Illustrations with Patterns in Photoshop

Apply Patterns on a New Layer in Photoshop

1. Create a new layer within the Layers window after selecting your pattern and paint color.
2. Paint on the pattern with your mouse or tablet.

Apply Patterns with Masks in Photoshop

1. Create a new layer above where you would like to apply the texture within the Layers window after selecting your pattern and paint color.
2. Right-click the blank layer and select Create Clipping Mask.
3. Paint on the pattern in the newly created clipping mask with your mouse or tablet.

Make Gradient Textures with Shader Brushes in Photoshop

TransferTone includes solid and shader varieties of each brush.

1. Create a new layer within the Layers window after selecting your pattern and paint color.
2. Create a gradient effect by applying a controlled increase in pressure over the desired area.

Note: You can use this technique with either the New Layer or Clipping Mask methods described above. Only tablets with pressure sensitivity enabled will be able to utilize this technique.

Resize Patterns in Photoshop

1. Select the brush you would like to use in the Brush Menu.
2. Navigate to the Brush Settings Menu.
3. Click the Texture tab and type in your preferred scale.
4. Minimize the Brush Settings Menu and paint using a mouse or tablet.

Note: For more assistance with resizing your brush's texture, you can read our tutorial here.