This week I thought I’d share with you, how I gather inspiration for my pattern collections.
I’ve really made a deep dive into pattern design in the last week. I’ve been gathering more inspiration for my patterns and looking at the artwork that I’ve created the last months (or years…). And I’ve started to pick up again where I left off on this surface pattern design journey.
Notion and also my notes in my notepad have been really helpful to get back into the swing of things. I’ve also been looking around Pinterest to get a better feel for pattern design. In the past years I have been doing online courses by Bonnie Christine, Mel Armstrong and Bärbel Dressler on Skillshare – all of which have been really helpful!
I still remember the moment that I realized that actual breathing humans create the patterns on t-shirts, bedding and tableware! I mean, how freaking amazing is that?!
So, here is a sneak peek at some of the first (very basic) patterns that I’ve drawn on my iPad. I had so much fun with this very first pattern, that I ended up creating multiple colourways for it. I’m also dabbling in Adobe Illustrator for creating patterns. But that is a topic for another day (haha, the Adobe Creative suite can be just so overwhelming, can’t it?).
My very first pattern. Inspired by Art Deco.
I’d love to do a pattern with the lily studies that I made. A bit in the style of a modern toile de jouy.
For these lily studies, I deconstructed some tulips to get a closer look at all the details. From that I created these observational sketches.
And also something with some tulips that I sketched this spring. Maybe a pattern inspired by William Morris. I really admire his work and many of the Art & Crafts movements creations!
These tulip sketches were also drawn by observing real tulips that I had on my desk. I think this is my favourite way to create!
Here is some inspiration that I gathered for my future pattern designs:
Different pattern design inspirations that I’ve been looking at. It is so interesting to see how different patterns can be!
Pattern Design by Elizabeth Wilhide
I highly recommend this book! It is not only a joy to flip through but also full of information and inspiration.
Do you have any recommendations on Surface Pattern Design books? And what do you think about my Pattern Design ideas?
Also, please get in touch to see my growing Surface Pattern Design Portfolio. I am always happy to offer art licenses.
