Tutorial_Pattern.png

Here’s how it works: For a pattern block to seamlessly repeat, sides that are opposite from each other have to match up. Objects that run off one edge of the block have to reappear on the opposite side. When working digitally, objects are matched up by calculating their opposite x and y coordinates.

Pattern_images7.jpg

Left / Right
Increasing the X value moves the
object right, decreasing it moves it left

Pattern_images8.jpg

Up / Down
Increasing the Y value moves the
object down, decreasing it moves it up

 

Create a pattern in Adobe Photoshop

 
Numbers-01.png

Prepare the Document in Photoshop

Open Photoshop > File > New Document. For this example, input the width and height of your pattern block to be 1000 pixels (px)

Numbers-02.png

Match up Artwork

  • Place the object onto the pattern block and duplicate its layer

  • With the duplicate layer selected click Edit > Free Transform > the X and Y values will appear in the top tool bar

  • If you're moving the object down, add 1000px to its Y value.

  • If you're moving the object right, add 1000px to its X value

Y.png
Ychange.png
Numbers-03.png

File > Define Pattern > Enter a name and click OK

Program the Pattern

Numbers-04.png

Apply the Pattern

It's best to test your pattern in a new document that's at least twice the size of your pattern block. Once you have a new document > File > Fill > In the Custom Pattern drop down menu, chose your pattern > OK

 

To organize, save, load or delete patterns go to the drop down menu in the Swatches panel > Preset Manager > Preset Type > Pattern

PatternManager.png
 

Bird Pattern by Shelley Henseler