Welcome back to the Affinity for Beginners series!
Now that you’ve learned the basics of working with text and creating simple designs, it’s time to make your typography really stand out.
In this tutorial, I’ll show you three different ways to fill text with photos and patterns in Affinity. We’ll start with the simplest method before moving into my favorite technique using the Vector Flood Fill Tool, which gives you much more flexibility and creative control.
If you create PNG designs, print on demand graphics, or digital products for Etsy, this is a technique you’ll use again and again.
Watch the full tutorial below to follow along step by step.
Method 1: Fill Text with a Photo
We begin with a simple piece of text and a photo.
In this section, you’ll learn how to:
- Add text to your document
- Import a photo
- Drag the photo into the text layer in the Layers Panel
- Instantly fill your text with an image
This is the quickest way to create photo filled text inside Affinity.
Method 2: Fill Text with a Pattern
Next, we use the same clipping technique with a floral pattern.
Along the way, I also demonstrate how to:
- Add decorative brush strokes
- Apply custom stroke brushes
- Arch your text for a more dynamic layout
These simple additions can completely transform plain text into a trendy boutique style design.
Method 3: My Favorite Pattern Fill Technique
While the clipping method is quick and easy, it’s not the workflow I use most often.
Instead, I prefer using the Vector Flood Fill Tool.
In this section, I show you how to:
- Fill individual letters with different patterns
- Scale and reposition each pattern independently
- Create a more customized look
- Build colorful, eye catching typography
This method gives you much more creative freedom and is perfect for creating trendy PNG and POD designs.
Adding the Finishing Touches
Once the patterns are in place, it’s time to polish the design.
In this tutorial, you’ll also learn how to:
- Add 3D effects
- Apply shadows
- Arch your text
- Create a finished design that feels layered and professional
These final details help your text become the focal point of your design.
Why I Prefer the Vector Flood Fill Tool
Both methods work well, but the Vector Flood Fill Tool gives you much more control.
Instead of filling every letter with the same image or pattern, you can:
- Mix multiple patterns
- Adjust each letter individually
- Create more unique typography
- Design graphics that stand out
It’s one of my favorite tools inside Affinity and one I use regularly when creating PNG designs.
Final Thoughts
Learning different ways to fill text opens up countless creative possibilities.
Whether you’re creating seasonal graphics, boutique tshirt designs, or Etsy PNGs, patterned typography is an easy way to make your designs feel more unique and professional.
As you continue through this beginner series, you’ll build on these techniques and learn even more ways to customize your designs.
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