Technique 28: Creating Custom Patterns
Using textures
Using the Pattern Maker filter
Patterns are fantastic! You can use them to create backgrounds, add texture, fill layers, even stamp and paint. You have many ways to create patterns. You can use filters to create textures that can be saved as patterns, use the Pattern Maker filter to create a pattern by using an image, or scan textured or marbled papers for use as patterns.
This technique explores how to create patterns by using various filters, including the Pattern Maker filter. You also find out how to save and load pattern libraries. (Did you know that Photoshop ships with several pattern libraries that aren’t automatically loaded into the Pattern picker?) After creating some great patterns here, turn to Technique 29 to find out how you can use them!
Many great sites offer patterns for download from the Web. Some of the pattern sets are free, and some cost a few bucks. To get you started, here are two sites that offer free downloads: Adobe Studio Exchange at
http://share.studio.adobe. com and Free Photoshop at
www.freephotoshop.coml/downloadablesl . To find more sites offering patterns for download, type Photoshop patterns into your favorite search engine.