What It Does
Pastiche 2 arranges your composition layers into collages based on a source shape. Feed it a source layer (text, logo, photo, anything) and a stack of layers, and it distributes those layers to fill the source shape. The plugin handles position, scale, rotation, and opacity for each layer. When the source changes over time, it animates the collage layers to morph between shapes.
Key Features
Stippling distribution pushes layers toward the darkest or most opaque areas of your source. You can base distribution on alpha or luminance, with adjustable precision for controlling how evenly layers spread. Useful for portrait effects or anywhere you need organic clustering.
Apply Color sets fill or stroke colors on shape layers based on the source. You can pull colors from the source image, apply random colors, or use a predefined palette. Works with animated shape layers, including physics-driven animations from Newton.
Loop mode makes seamless loops by setting the “Use First Value” option on any transform parameter. The plugin handles the keyframe math to ensure the animation cycles cleanly.
Step and Elastic interpolation give you new animation styles. Step forces layers to move along horizontal and vertical axes only (no diagonal movement). Elastic adds bounce to the motion path. Both are spatial interpolation methods that affect how layers travel between keyframes.
The plugin works with any layer type, including animated layers. It only manipulates transform properties (position, scale, rotation, opacity), so you can manually adjust any layer afterward without breaking the collage. Handles hundreds of layers without slowing down.
Who It’s For
Motion designers building title sequences, logo reveals, or abstract transitions. Useful if you’re creating visual effects where many small elements need to form a larger shape, then disperse or morph into another shape. Pairs well with Newton for physics-based collages.
Pricing
Pastiche 2 is available on a pay-what-you-want basis (starting at $0). The suggested price is $89. The trial version limits you to 25 layers; the full version has no layer limit.
If you purchased Pastiche 1 after December 13, 2020, the upgrade is free. Earlier purchasers can upgrade for $45. A 50% student discount is available.
