How to Step and Repeat in Photoshop

The step and repeat function makes working with graphics in quicker and simpler. This great command automates the task of creating copies of an object and dragging them to their precise locations. Sadly, Photoshop lacks a step and repeat command, even though its sister product InDesign offers one. Fortunately, Photoshop does offer a work-around that's almost as good.

Instructions

1. Open your Photoshop document. Create the object you want to duplicate on its own layer. You can use a custom shape from the shapes library, create your own vector shape or paint the object directly onto the layer.

2. Position your custom object precisely where you want the series to begin. You can mark the point with guides, or type coordinates into the X and Y coordinates in the Transform palette.

3. Calculate the positions for your object copies. If you're not sure of the spacing, you can use the following formula to decide how they should be spaced: distance in pixels/copies (for example, 720 pixels/6 copies equals 120 pixels apart).

4. Select the layer in the Layers palette and choose "Free Transform" from the Edit menu. You will see a series of squares surrounding the object. Add the distance you want to move horizontally to the current X field value, and the vertical distance to the Y field value. The object will move to the new position.

5. Click the "Check" icon in the Transform options at the top of the window. This will set the values of your transformation. But you will notice that you moved the object, not copied it. You will need to restore the object to its first position.

6. Undo the transformation (Command + Z). Now type "Control + Alt + Shift + T" ("Command + Option + Shift + T" on a Mac). The copy will jump into place. Retype the same command key sequence for each copy you want to create.

Tips & Warnings

• Unfortunately, Photoshop's vertical and horizontal coordinates are calculated in pixels. To convert inches to pixels, multiply the number of inches by 72.