The PAT file extension stands for "Pattern". An apt name, as you can use PAT files in Photoshop to create exactly that: patterns.

The principle: The files usually contain smaller image structures that you can place on larger areas again and again with just a few clicks, creating a texture, a pattern. The patterns are often designed to create seamless transitions between the individual pattern elements.

On TutKit.com you will find various pattern presets for Photoshop, for example with ornaments. We will show you below how to import and apply the patterns.

Importing Photoshop patterns

Photoshop has a library of patterns that you can expand yourself. You can import new patterns in three ways. First, start Photoshop.

• Option 1: Double-click on a PAT file. This will add the pattern to your pattern library (without you noticing it directly).
• Option 2: Open your pattern library via Window>Patterns. In the small menu in the top corner of the window that opens, you will find the Import patterns function ... Select the PAT files on your computer that you want to import and click on Load.
• Option 3: Double-click on a layer in an open Photoshop file to open the Layer Style window. Select the Pattern overlay workspace. Here you will also find your pattern library in the Pattern: field. Open it using the arrow symbol. In the small menu in the top corner of the window that opens, you will find the Import pattern function ... Select the PAT files on your computer that you want to import and click on Load.

Filling areas with patterns using Photoshop's pattern overlay

This method is suitable for applying a pattern to the entire surface of a layer. It also offers the advantage that you can adjust patterns once they have been created:

1. Double-click on the layer you want to apply a pattern to to open the Layer Style window and select the Pattern Overlay workspace. Alternatively, you can also find this behind the fx symbolof the layer workspace.
2. Select the pattern you want behind Pattern: from your pattern library.
3. Adjust settings such as fill method, opacity and scaling.
4. Click on OK.

As a result, a pattern overlay has now been assigned to your layer, which you can show and hide in the layer workspace at any time or adjust again by double-clicking.

Filling areas with patterns using Photoshop's fill tool

This method is also suitable for filling entire areas, but also for filling partial areas:

1. Use a selection tool (e.g. selection rectangle tool or lasso) to select the areas on your layer that you would like to fill with a pattern.
2. Activate the fill tool (shortcut G).
3. In the context menu of the fill tool, select instead of Pattern.
4. Select the desired pattern from your pattern library.
5. Click in an area you have selected to fill the areas with the pattern.

You can find our best patterns for Photoshop to download here: