Want to create those trendy leopard print or buffalo plaid letters? It takes just three steps! This text effect can be done in any graphic design program with a clipping mask feature. Below the tutorial is a video where I show how to do it in Photoshop.
Option 1: Using a clipping mask to add a background to text

A clipping mask can be use to show a layer only where there are pixels on the layer below. It’s a quick way to add photos, patterns, or textures to another layer without have to use a selection tool. A clipping mask will automatically update when the main layer is edited. Here’s the short tutorial:
- Create a text layer
- Add a layer ABOVE the text layer with the photo, pattern, or other art you want to fill the text with
- Enable the clipping mask on the top layer that contains your fill content
Here’s more information on using clipping masks in different graphic design programs:
Option 2: Using the Pattern feature in Photoshop to add a seamless pattern to text
Using the Pattern feature is a a great way to fill text with a repeating pattern while leaving both the text and pattern editable. Here’s how to create a pattern and add it to text in Photoshop:
Create a repeating pattern
- Open an image in Photoshop
- Select > All
- Edit > Define pattern
Fill text with a repeating pattern
- Create a text layer
- Double-click on the text layer to open the Layer Style dialog
- Click the Pattern Overlay option
- Click the drop-down next to the pattern to select your pattern
- Use the Scale option to resize your pattern
- Click and drag on the layer to move the pattern around (must still have Layer Style dialog open)
- Click Okay to apply the pattern
Video: Adding a photo or pattern to text in Photoshop

