Welcome to our tutorial on how to add brushes to Photoshop. Learning how to install brushes is a valuable tool for any creative professional.
How to Install Photoshop Brushes
Whether you’re a designer or digital painter, the Brush Tool is a remarkable feature you should get to know. And with the option to create and install brushes in Photoshop, you’ll want to add to the built-in library.
First, place the brushes into the Photoshop/Presets/Brushes folder, under the Adobe folder in the Program Files for Windows. Or if you’re using a Mac, place them in Applications.
Let’s see how it’s done by learning how to load brushes in Photoshop in the video below. Check out how to create the painting from this video from my Realistic Skin Painting Tutorial. And download the custom dirt and decay brushes seen here from fellow Envato Tuts+ instructor, Kirk Nelson.
Follow along on our Envato Tuts+ YouTube channel:
How to Install Brushes in Photoshop
By default, Photoshop uses the .ABR file extension for its brushes. The problem is that with the new update, the process of how to add brushes within the software has changed a bit, which is why I’m going to present both methods so that if you’re using an older version, you’ll be able to install them without any problems.
How to Install Brushes in Photoshop
- Start by downloading the desired brush(es), and then move them to the default Brush Presets Folder (Program Files > Adobe > Adobe Photoshop (your version) > Presets > Brushes).
- Bring up the software, and then with the Brush tool (B) selected, open up the Brush preset picker from within the top toolbar, and click on the little gear icon found in the top-right corner.
- As soon as the submenu opens, you should see an option called Load Brushes. Click and then select the one that you’ve just added to the Brushes Presets folder.
- As soon as you install brushes in Photoshop, you can open up the Brush preset picker again, and you should now see them added as a group, which you can click on in order to see all the available brushes included within the downloaded .ABR file.
Already mastered how to install PS brushes? Check out some cool tutorials to help you use your newly imported brushes in Photoshop.
Expand Your Brush Library
Want to build a larger brush library, but don’t quite know where to start?
If that’s the case, Envato Elements might be a great solution, since it offers a large selection of Photoshop brushes such as these ones.
Stipple Brush Set (ABR, AI, EPS)
Bring your artwork to the next level with this realistic-looking stipple brush set. Import the brushes into Photoshop and bring your artwork to life.
Shader Brushes (ABR, EPS, PNG)
This one is probably one of my favorite shading brushes, since it allows you to enhance your artwork in a matter of seconds, giving it that wow factor that you’re looking for.
Destruction Brushes (ABR)
Want to an an interesting destruction effect to your artwork, but don’t feel like going through the process of creating it from scratch? Well if that’s the case, this brush pack might be a great addition to your library since it will surely amaze those viewing it.
Digital Linear Waves Brushes (ABR, PNG)
Let’s be honest, techno wave lines are a fad now, so this pack is clearly meant to be picked up and used, since it will enable you to create amazing artwork for any future project in a matter of moments.
Vintage Paper Brushes (ABR)
Always wanted to add a vintage paper look to your artwork, but never actually wanted to go through the process of scanning covers in order to create the textures themselves? If that’s the case, then this textures brush pack might be exactly what you’re looking for.
Acrylic Brushes (ABR)
Sometimes, you might want to be able to create more abstract-looking artwork, but Photoshop brushes aren’t exactly the best solution. So I want to share with you this incredible-looking acrylic brush pack that will be a great addition to your library.
Marble Ink Brushes (ABR)
When it comes to enhancing a piece of artwork, textures will always be a great and easy solution, which is why I need to introduce you to this beautiful set of marble ink brushes, which you should definitely include in your library.
Topographic Map Brushes (ABR, PNG)
If you’re looking for abstract-looking brushes, then look no further, since this topographic map brush pack will blow your mind as soon as you add it to your library. From adding textures to creating backgrounds or decorative art pieces, these brushes will prove their versatility as soon as you start using them.
Hand Drawn Brushes (ABR)
When it comes to giving your artwork that hand-drawn look that people love, you might want to cast an eye on this mind-blowing brush pack, which is not only easy to use, but also a real joy to look at as it brings life into your shapes and lines.
Inkers Brushes for Adobe Photoshop (ABR)
Use your skills learning how to import brushes into Photoshop and get your hands on these amazing Inkers Brushes. The package comes with 84 different brushes to choose from.
A Bit More Detail
Want to learn more about Adobe Photoshop’s vast tools and settings? Check out these tutorials below: