How can you apply a pattern to a layer in Photoshop?

Applying a pattern to a layer in Photoshop can be effectively achieved through the Layer Style or Fill settings. When you select these options, you have the ability to choose a pattern from the pattern library and apply it to the layer as a texture or background. This method allows for flexibility in how the pattern integrates with the other elements of your design, including the ability to adjust the scale, angle, and blending mode of the pattern, thereby enhancing the overall visual appeal.

The other methods listed are certainly valid ways to incorporate patterns, but they do not function as comprehensively or effectively for the purpose of applying a pattern to a layer for style and texture. For instance, directly painting with the Pattern Brush or using the Pattern Stamp Tool would typically yield more sporadic and potentially less controlled results, as these tools are designed primarily for creative application rather than formal layer styling. Adjusting layer properties in the layers panel can manipulate existing characteristics but wouldn’t inherently apply a pattern in the same structured way that the Layer Style or Fill settings do. Therefore, using these settings is the most systematic and versatile approach to applying a pattern to a layer.