In Photoshop, the “Flow” rate of a brush determines how quickly the color or effect builds up as you paint. A lower flow rate will apply color gradually, while a higher flow rate will apply color more intensely. Here’s how you can change a brush’s flow rate:
Method 1: Using the Brush Panel
- Open the Brush Panel by going to Window > Brush, or press the F5 key.
- In the Brush Panel, you’ll find the “Flow” slider. You can adjust the Flow percentage using the slider. Slide it to the left for a lower flow rate or to the right for a higher flow rate.
Method 2: Using the Options Bar
- Select the Brush tool from the toolbar.
- In the Options bar at the top of the screen, you’ll see the “Flow” dropdown menu. Click on it to reveal a slider.
- Slide the Flow slider to the left for a lower flow rate or to the right for a higher flow rate.
Method 3: Using Keyboard Shortcuts
- With the Brush tool selected, you can use the keyboard shortcuts to adjust the flow rate while painting:
- Press the number keys (1 to 0) on your keyboard to quickly set the flow rate. For example, pressing “5” will set the flow rate to 50%.
Method 4: Using Pen Pressure (If You Have a Pressure-Sensitive Tablet)
- If you’re using a pressure-sensitive graphics tablet, such as a Wacom tablet, you can control the flow rate using pen pressure.
- Make sure your tablet and pen are properly configured with Photoshop.
- As you press lighter or harder with the pen, the flow rate will automatically adjust based on the pressure applied.
Method 5: Right-Click for Temporary Flow Adjustment
- While using the Brush tool, hold down the Alt (Option on Mac) key and right-click.
- Drag left or right to temporarily adjust the flow rate. Release the right mouse button to return to the previously set flow rate.
Remember that the flow rate affects how the brush applies color over time, so adjusting it can help you achieve more subtle or controlled effects while painting or retouching in Photoshop. Experiment with different flow rates to see how they impact your work.