In case you already have a shape you’d like to apply the Pattern Swatch to, just select the shape on your artboard and select the Pattern Swatch you’d like to apply. If you want to apply the same Pattern Swatch that’s already been used on a shape, use the “Eyedropper Tool” (i) by selecting the empty shape, and then click on the existing shape.
How to apply Pattern Swatches in Illustrator
There are multiple ways to apply a Pattern Swatch in Adobe Illustrator. Below, we’ll explain the most important ones.
Apply a Pattern Swatch to an existing shape
Blob Brush
To use the pattern as a paint brush, select the Pattern Swatch of your choice and go to the “Blob Brush Tool” (Shift + B). Then, start painting with your brush and you’ll see the Pattern Swatch being applied automatically.
Pen Tool
If you prefer to use the Pen Tool for this, select the Pattern Swatch of your choice and start drawing. The Pattern Swatch will be applied automatically.