Step 1: Enable Pattern Preview

Open up Adobe Photoshop and create/open a document. Next, select View > Pattern Preview.

Step 2: Add Elements

Add elements onto the canvas boundary that are to repeat. This can include text and shapes along with other elements from the libraries panel. Images work as well on this.

Step 3: Resize, Rotate, and Reposition

Adjust the elements as needed using the transform tool.

Step 4: Zoom to Size

In some cases it may be necessary to zoom out to the desired size of the print. Seeing the pattern at size can help many designers through the process.

Step 5: Define Pattern

Now that the pattern is completed, open the Patterns panel. Click the + at the bottom of the panel or choose Edit > Define Pattern to add the pattern to the panel.

Helpful Hints

Smart Objects

When using Pattern Preview converting all rasterized elements to smart objects to produce the best results when modifying position, scale, and rotation.

Layer Styles

Layer styles work within Pattern Preview, so take advantage of them if need be. While they are not always the best effects they do help in a pinch.

Performance Tips

Pattern Preview relies on the GPU rendering so some slowdowns may occur on the following scenarios.

• Working on a pattern that is zoomed out too far.
• Using Pattern Preview on large documents.
• Creating a large pattern with complex brushes.

Limitations of Pattern Preview

Adobe states that while working with Pattern Preview it is important to note the following:

• Pattern Preview is disabled in documents with artboards.
• Pattern Preview still functions when GPU is disabled
• Certain tools and commands that change the document dimensions or document bounds such as crop tool, canvas size, etc, will turn Pattern Preview off
• Some filters or features may produce results that do not translate well to your pattern, such as: Symmetry, Liquify, Vanishing Point, or 3D