Varian's Dreamview: DreamDesign - Quick Tips for Digital Graphics: Seamless Tiles

	DreamDesign Digital Graphics Tutorials Main Index
	Making Seamless Tiles: Overlapping Method

The overlapping method can result in an impressive appearance. When done with care, it is completely seamless. For best results, you'll need 24-bit color and the ability to paste transparently (or use layers). Artistic ability helps, but is not necessarily needed as long as you are familiar with the tools of your paint program.

Divide the image equally in half vertically and paste the righthand section to the left. Now divide the image equally in half horizontally; paste the bottom section to the top. Modify the image along the original borders as needed to blend them together and eliminate sharp edges. (Possible tools: Smudge, Soften, Blend, Blur, Mix, Anti-Alias, Tint, etc.)

Divide the image in half vertically and place the right side to the left.

Divide it in half horizontally and place the bottom section at the top.

Smooth out the original edges so they no longer show distinct lines.

Now, transparently paste the original on top of this modified image. Adjust the density as needed to suit the particular graphic.
Or paste your original image to a new layer and lower opacity to 50%.

Again, divide the image in half vertically and place the right side to the left. Divide it in half horizontally and place the bottom section at the top. Smooth out the original edges so they don't show distinct lines.

Select this image to see its tiled appearance.