Abstract Background

This is a very simple technique for creating those nice-looking abstract backgrounds you see everywhere these days. Start with a new document. I’m using 500px x 150px but any size will do.

Now select the gradient tool and choose the linear gradient type. Now pick your favourite colored gradient. I’m using a light pink/blue one from the pastel set because I like the subtle shifts in hue.

Now set the gradient mode to “Difference” and start making gradients that randomly cross one another on the canvas. There’s no real set rules to follow here, just be careful not to overdo it.

As you can see, the more gradients you make, the more layers of color you build up. Once you’re satisfied with the pattern that inevitably begins to emerge, stop.

You can leave it like this if you like, but personally, I prefer a monochromatic look, so desaturate the image (Ctrl+Shiv+U), and I usually like to do an auto-level adjust on it at this point as well (Ctrl+Shift+L).

Finally, go to Image - Adjust - Hue/Saturation, check the “colorize” box and slide the hue, sat and lightness sliders until you get the proper color you want and click OK.

There you have it, one simple, abstract background pattern. Try taking several layers of these and combining them in interesting ways to see what you can come up with.

Added Saturday, May 13th, 2006 at 8:58 pm under Textures.