How to Do "Step and Repeat" in Photoshop

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Step and repeat is a technique used for duplicating an object and the spacing as you want it to be. Typically, step and repeat is used in an object-oriented program, such as InDesign, rather than in a pixel-based editor, such as Photoshop. However, you can do a step-and-repeat technique in Photoshop. Without step and repeat, creating a perfectly spaced pattern is not a fun venture. It would involve manually duplicating and placing each shape, which takes quite some time. Step and repeat makes it easier!

Part 1
Part 1 of 2:

Making the Step

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    Making a new document is often more convenient when you are doing step and repeat. Choose any size.
    • Go to File > New or press Ctrl + N in Windows or press ⌘ Command + N in Mac, on the keyboard.
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    Let that be a square. You can use the shape tool or make a marquee selection.
    • Do it on a new layer.
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    The transform buttons will show up in the four corners of the square.
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    You can also click on the Check( ✓ ) above.
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Part 2
Part 2 of 2:

Doing the Repeat

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    • A new layer is created as you press the T button (while holding the other keys at the same time).
    • You can press T (with other keys) as many times as you want. Just be sure to not to make too many layers.
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    If you merge or group the layers, it will a lot easier to manage. Otherwise, you might experience lag working with so many layers.
    • Select all the layers and press Ctrl + E in Windows and ⌘ Cmd + E on a Mac.
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    You can use it while selecting hairs, making animations , creating frame animations, etc.
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      Tips

      • You can not only move the object, but also rotate and change the size of it.
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      • Merge those new layers or group them. This will look cleaner, reduce your lag, and reduce the file size when you save it.
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      • You can press the T button as many times you want, but don't stop holding the other keys, or it won't work.
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      Warnings

      • Don't make more than 150 to 200 layers, or Photoshop will crash and your hand will start paining.
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      Things You'll Need

      • Adobe Photoshop
      • Platform: macOS or Windows

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