Summary
From beach towels to graphic t-shirts, surface pattern design surrounds us.
you might mix and match software and techniques to get unique results.
Anything that results in designs you’re proud of can be created with any method that works for you.
Being a surface designer doesn’t mean you must stay loyal to one program or company.
Learn the benefits of each software and lean into them for the best results.
Trends can include motifs like animals, animal prints, kitsch items, certain colors, or trending phrases.
You might be the trendsetter.
Use a Limited Color Palette
The task of picking color palettes can sometimes be overwhelming.
Begin your designs using a mono-color palette.
Challenging yourself with a limited color palette is another great way to make harmonious surface pattern designs.
Most successful surface patterns have no more than five colors; less is usually more.
As well as creative challenges, you might stumble across competitions calling for patterns or artwork.
If youre inspired to create, then you might use your creation in your own surface pattern designs.
You may even use your old artwork or sketches for inspiration alone.
you’re free to set up many online stores, selling the same designs in multiple places.
When someone orders a product, the website manufactures and ships it.
Watch Design Classes and Tutorials
Artists and designers should always be learning.
Surface designers likeCatCoqprovide video and blog tutorials, sharing their personal techniques and resources.
Share Your Work
Sharing your work allows you to build an audience.
Gift created pieces to others, or wear or use them yourself.
This encourages more people to look at your work.
See ourtips for a successful creative collaborationand learn how you’re able to apply these to surface design.
In fact, finding a smaller niche of products will prevent you from feeling overwhelmed by the limitless choices.
Focus your art style towards two or three intentional products and set your goals on designing for them.
Doing this to begin with will build your confidence as well as your portfolio.
License Your Work
Licensing your surface patterns will help push your designs into public view.
But if that success hasnt found you yet, dont be afraid to cold-contact licensing agencies yourself.
Practicing your art and design skills is only half the battle.
The more you practice and try new techniques, the better your surface pattern designs will be.
