A few illustrator questions (probably simple) PIP

MIstyA85

I am very new to illustrator and am trying to create an invitation. I would like a background pattern. I have a few patterns (stripes, polka dot, ect) saved on my computer as jpgs. I click on "new" and upload a pattern and then put text over it. But if I want to change the background (to see if I want a stripe or polka dot pattern), it just creates a new document (like a new tab). I can't get it to change the existing background. How can I add multiple files and have them all show (I know this has something to do with 'layers', but I can't seem to figure it out when uploading my own files). ?

Also, I'd like to have a border. I'd like the exterior of the border to have a pattern and the interior to have a different pattern, like invite below (except picture the white space behind the text on this invite as having a pattern). That is what I am trying to achieve.

I know there are a few of you who really know illustrator and I'd really appreciate your help. I've googled and watched tutorials, but I can't find info on uploading my own images/graphics. Thanks so much!

emoflamingo

You need to use shapes for that. Create the pattern in your palette and make a shape, using the pattern. Then you can change the pattern in the shape.

Same for both things, actually. You'll need to use the pen tool to make a border like that. 

TXsun

when the background gets opened in a new document just copy it and paste it into the other document and close out that other window.

 another option is to go up to file > place and browse to the location of the background image you want to use and click ok. then click anywhere on your document and it will place the background image there.

 

MIstyA85

Thank you girls! Both of your comments helped me and also helped me discover little tips about illustrator that I didn't know.

TXsun

I've been using illustrator for about 10 years and I learn new stuff all the time. its the great thing and crappy thing about it haha!