I am designing a sign with a number on it. How can I make the Fill of the number (11) show as an image? I trace bitmap using color to retain the properties of the photo, and click the number and try a combination of exclusion, inclusion, etc. and nothing happens.

Instead of a solid gray colored number, I want a us flag to make up the number 11. How do I accomplish this?

Thank you!

There might be a few different ways to do it. Here are a some:
1 -- Draw a flag, convert it to a pattern, and use the new pattern as a fill for the text.
2 -- Text to path and use it as a clipping path to clip the "11" out of a flag.
3 -- Text to path, place over flag, Path Intersection.

Before I start with instructions, I want to be clear on what you're doing. What is purpose or need for the bitmap tracing? Is that to "vectorize" a photo of a flag? Or else if you could let us know more about that, or if any of the ways I've listed seem better than others (or those that others may suggest by the time you reply), we'll be glad to provide more detailed instructions. I just hesitate to make that choice for you, without knowing a little more about it

Ditto what Byrnn has said.
Also, if you use the method of Object, then Pattern for the fill, you don't normally do not need to do the Trace bitmap. I would try this method first. Once you've filled the 11 with the flag pattern, you can then go to the node mode and that allows you to make some adjustments (it brings up a 'button' that allows you to move the pattern around a little bit).

Thanks for the help. I would assume to trace bitmap to vectorize the image I want to use as a fill pattern. I am familiar with using fill patterns in Photoshop, but I am more accustomed (weird since I am asking this question!) to using Inkscape.

How do I convert an Object to a Pattern? Every time I click on the flag image, and click object to path, I get the "no object to convert."

I uploaded a print screen of what I am working with - at the bottom, you see the flag picture, and the gray #11. I do not want the 11 to be a solid gray fill, but rather, a portion of the flag, depending on where I position it.

Thank you!!

Got it - found how to convert the image to a pattern. Thanks!!! Now I just need to figure out how to move it around.

Awesome!
There are handles for manipulating the pattern, but they are not usually anywhere near the pattern/object. Select the flag pattern with the Node tool, and zoom out. But not too far, lol! What you're looking for is a tiny X, tiny circle and....if I recall, a tiny square. If you drag the X, you can move all the handles closer to the pattern, so you can see what you're doing.

I will never again underestimate the value of posts from many years ago! I have been struggling for some time with the "residual" outside an area I have clipped. This "object to pattern" and "intersection" combo completely solves my dilemma! Thanks engs0062 for asking and Brynn for responding!