I will be explaining on how I created the pattern on my homepage, in the main box. It is quite easy and will allow you to create many different graphics for your pages. For instance I create all my borders, background images, and repeating tile decorations like this. It is very easy.

Step 1:

Open a new Photoshop document: File>New> .

Step 2:

Make the document size 500 pixels wide by 500 pixels high.

Step 3:

Select the eye dropper tool and color swatch any color you wish to use from an existing photo or drawing.

Step 4:

Use the paint bucket tool to "fill" the entire background of the selected layer.

Your document should now look like this:

Step 5:

Select the paint brush tool, from the left hand navigation.

Then select your brush type, size, and opacity by manipulation the brush tool palette. I select thick heavy brushes, size 20, blend mode: normal, and an opacity of 100%.

Tip: The short cut keys for the brush is Apple Key (command) while holding down either the [ (larger) or ] (smaller).

Step 6:

Play with the brush settings and create your desired effect. Once you are finished we will convert it into a pattern for you to save for future use. A little tip, if you want a smooth transition between repeats of the pattern, make sure the edges meet up on the sides, otherwise when the pattern repeats it will be obvious, it is a duplicate image and not one continuous image.

I wanted my pattern to have a gradient as well, so here is how I added that. Select the gradient tool from the navigation.

To alter the color and direction, and type of the gradient simple double click the gradient sample at the top of the page, and the gradient editor will open. You can play with color, opacity, type, and style in this dialog box.

Step 7:

Once you are happy with your finished pattern, you will want to save it as a pattern. Simply, select: Edit>Define Pattern>.

A secondary dialog box will open and prompt you to name your pattern, select your name and then hit okay.

Your pattern is now been saved with the other Photoshop default patterns, to use your pattern, simple click the filters icon, in the layers palette.

You will then be able to select the pattern style and then select your custom pattern. Select okay to add it to your layer.

Congratulations, you just created your own custom pattern!