This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we may earn commission for qualifying purchases. See our disclaimer for more information.

Photoshop is a powerful tool for graphic design and digital art, allowing you to create intricate patterns that add depth and interest to your projects.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of creating a captivating pattern using smart objects and simple techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned designer or just getting started, this tutorial will help you master the art of pattern creation in Photoshop.

Setting Up Your Canvas

To begin, let’s set up the canvas for our pattern:

1. Open Photoshop and create a new file with dimensions of 1200 pixels by 1200 pixels.
2. Leave the artboards unselected, set the resolution to 300 pixels per inch, and choose RGB color mode.
3. Set the background content to transparent and click on \”Create.\”

Creating the Base Pattern

The foundation of our pattern will be a rotated square repeated in the four corners. Follow these steps:

1. Select the Rectangle Shape Tool and draw a square by holding down Shift while dragging.
2. Use the Move Tool (V) to center the square on the canvas.
3. Rotate the square 45 degrees using the Free Transform tool (Command or Control + T).
4. Convert the square to a smart object by right-clicking and choosing \”Convert to Smart Object.\”
5. Duplicate the smart object using the keyboard shortcut Command or Control + J.
6. Move the duplicated smart object to one of the corners using Command or Control + T to transform and positioning values.
7. Continue duplicating and positioning the smart object to complete the pattern in all four corners.
8. Alternatively, use our Photoshop actions to quickly duplicate and position the smart object in all corners for a more efficient workflow.

Adding Division Lines

Next, we’ll add division lines to our pattern:

1. Double-click on one of the smart objects to edit its contents.
2. Create a new layer and use guides to divide the canvas into four sections.
3. Draw a rectangle in one of the sections using the Rectangle Marquee Tool.
4. Fill the rectangle with your foreground color (Option + Delete for Mac, Alt + Backspace for PC).
5. Convert this layer to a smart object.
6. Use the Move Tool (V) to center the new smart object on its guide.
7. Duplicate and position the smart object in the other three sections using Command or Control + J and Command or Control + T.

Adding Additional Elements

Now, let’s enhance our pattern by adding more elements:

1. Duplicate the original center smart object and rotate it 90 degrees.
2. Position the rotated smart object at the top, sides, and bottom of the canvas.
3. Adjust the positions using Command or Control + T and entering the appropriate values.

Fine-Tuning and Saving the Pattern

With the basic pattern elements in place, it’s time to fine-tune and save your creation:

1. Edit the smart objects as needed to refine the pattern’s appearance.
2. Save each smart object and close them.
3. Define your pattern by going to Edit > Define Pattern and giving it a name.
4. Access the Patterns panel (Window > Patterns) to find your newly created pattern.

Applying the Pattern

Finally, let’s apply your pattern to a new project:

1. Create a new document with dimensions suitable for your project.
2. Access the Patterns panel and select your newly created pattern.
3. Create a pattern fill layer by dragging the pattern onto your document.
4. Customize the pattern’s appearance by adding adjustment layers and experimenting with colors.

Conclusion

Creating intricate patterns in Photoshop is a rewarding endeavor that allows you to add unique visual elements to your designs. By utilizing smart objects, duplication, rotation, and careful positioning, you can craft captivating patterns that enhance your creative projects. Experiment with different shapes, colors, and arrangements to unlock endless possibilities for your design work. Happy pattern-making!

CLICK TO LEARN MORE

Looking for more Pattern Design Tutorials?