Pattern transforms let you create complex repeating patterns from a single element. Use radial, linear, grid, or mirror repeats to build mandalas, borders, backgrounds, and decorative elements.
Pattern Repeat Types
Grid Repeat
Tile elements in a regular grid pattern:
- Set horizontal and vertical count
- Adjust spacing between copies
- Offset alternating rows/columns
- Great for backgrounds and textures
Radial Repeat
Arrange elements around a center point:
- Set number of copies (e.g., 8 for octagon pattern)
- Adjust radius from center
- Control rotation per copy
- Perfect for mandalas, badges, and icons
Linear Repeat
Repeat elements along a line:
- Set direction (horizontal, vertical, or angle)
- Control spacing between copies
- Adjust scale progression
- Use for borders, dividers, and decorative lines
Mirror Repeat
Create symmetrical patterns:
- Horizontal - Mirror left/right
- Vertical - Mirror top/bottom
- Both - Four-way symmetry
- Great for logos and symmetric designs
Creating Pattern Transforms
- Select an element to use as the pattern source
- Open the Pattern Transform panel
- Choose a repeat type
- Adjust settings in the panel
- The pattern updates in real-time
Transform Settings
Position & Spacing
- Gap X/Y - Space between copies
- Offset - Shift alternating rows/columns
- Origin - Center point for radial patterns
Rotation
- Per-Copy Rotation - Rotate each copy incrementally
- Pattern Rotation - Rotate entire pattern
- Face Center - Point copies toward center (radial)
Scale
- Uniform Scale - Same size for all copies
- Progressive Scale - Grow or shrink copies
- Random Scale - Vary sizes for organic look
Working with Patterns
Edit Source
- Double-click to edit the source element
- Changes update all copies automatically
- Maintain link or break to make copies independent
Flatten Pattern
- Convert pattern to individual elements
- Right-click and choose "Flatten"
- Useful for further editing or export
Common Use Cases
- Mandalas - Radial repeat with rotation
- Borders - Linear repeat along edges
- Wallpapers - Grid repeat with offset
- Logos - Mirror for symmetry
- Icons - Radial for compass/star shapes
- Decorative Elements - Complex layered patterns
Performance Tips
- Keep copy count reasonable (under 100)
- Use simpler source elements for dense patterns
- Flatten patterns before export for best compatibility
- Consider rasterizing very complex patterns
Tips
- Start with a single, well-designed source element
- Use odd numbers for radial repeats (3, 5, 7) for organic feels
- Even numbers (4, 6, 8) create more geometric patterns
- Combine multiple pattern layers for complex effects