What are some tips and tricks for applying pattern strokes and fills in AI?

1 Choose the right pattern

The first step to applying pattern strokes and fills is to choose the right pattern for your design. AI comes with a library of preset patterns that you can access from the Swatches panel or the Window menu. You can also create your own patterns using the Pattern Maker tool or by dragging any artwork to the Swatches panel. When choosing a pattern, consider the size, shape, color, and contrast of the elements, and how they will interact with the background and the other objects in your illustration.

2 Adjust the scale and rotation

Once you have chosen a pattern, you can adjust its scale and rotation to fit your design. To do this, select the object with the pattern stroke or fill, and go to Object > Transform > Scale or Rotate. In the dialog box, check the Preview option and the Patterns option, and uncheck the Objects option. This will allow you to modify only the pattern without affecting the object. You can also use the Scale tool or the Rotate tool to do this interactively on the artboard.

3 Apply gradients and transparency

Another way to enhance your pattern strokes and fills is to apply gradients and transparency effects to them. This can create a more realistic and dynamic look, as well as add some variation and interest to your illustration. To apply a gradient to a pattern stroke or fill, select the object and go to the Gradient panel or the Window menu. You can choose from linear or radial gradients, and adjust the colors, angles, and locations of the stops. To apply transparency effects, such as opacity, blending modes, or masks, select the object and go to the Transparency panel or the Window menu. You can experiment with different settings and see how they affect your pattern.

4 Use the Appearance panel

The Appearance panel is a powerful tool that allows you to apply multiple attributes and effects to a single object, such as strokes, fills, gradients, transparency, and more. You can use it to create complex and layered pattern strokes and fills, and to control their order and visibility. To use the Appearance panel, select the object and go to the Appearance panel or the Window menu. You can add new strokes and fills by clicking on the icons at the bottom of the panel, and drag them up or down to change their order. You can also apply effects by clicking on the fx icon, and edit or delete them by clicking on their names.

5 Expand your pattern strokes and fills

The final tip for applying pattern strokes and fills is to expand them if you need to edit them further or use them for other purposes. Expanding your pattern strokes and fills will convert them into regular vector objects that you can manipulate with the Direct Selection tool, the Pathfinder panel, or other tools. To expand your pattern strokes and fills, select the object and go to Object > Expand. In the dialog box, check the Fill and/or Stroke options, depending on what you want to expand, and click OK. You can also use the Expand Appearance option if you have applied effects to your pattern strokes and fills.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?