Hey there! Have you ever wondered what surface pattern design is all about? It’s the number one question I get asked when I tell people I am a surface designer -“What exactly is that?!” So I thought I’d answer that question for all those curious….
In a nutshell, it’s all about creating awesome patterns that can be applied to a surface, all sorts of things like fabrics, wallpapers, packaging, even your phone case. The possibilities are endless and the patterns can be as simple or as complex as you like.
There’s no one style suits all so patterns can range from simple geometric shapes to flowery designs or abstract art. Each designer tends to have their own style and with that, their own audience, which is why it is such a fab career to get into.
Where did surface pattern design begin?
The art of surface pattern design goes way, way back and can be seen in ancient cultures like the Egyptians and Greeksm who used patterns in their art and architecture. Nowadays, surface pattern design is a thriving industry that covers a huge range of applications and markets.
Surface pattern designers often work closely with textile manufacturers to create designs for fabrics used in clothing, home decor, and upholstery. They also create designs for wallpaper, packaging, and even stationery!
Surface design doesn’t just have to be patterns, it can be illustrations and drawings that can be applied to a surface where a one off image would make sense, like a plate or a mug. Not sure why the only examples coming into my head right now are kitchenware!
How to create a surface pattern?
To create a design, surface pattern designers use a bunch of different tools and techniques. Each of us has a preferred style and way to work. Some start with hand-drawn sketches or paintings, while others dive straight into designing on the ipad or computer, using software like Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop. Personally, I tend to start with hand-drawn pencil sketches and then take it from there.
When you are starting out, it’s good to play around and work out which is your favourite way to work. You don’t have to stick to this, but it will likely influence your style.
Overall, surface pattern design is a creative and exciting field that offers endless possibilities for designers and manufacturers alike. With the right skills, tools, and techniques, designers can create patterns that are not only visually appealing but also functional and versatile. Whether you’re a designer, a manufacturer, or a consumer, surface pattern design is an integral part of our daily lives and a testament to the power of design. So if you are thinking about it, why not give it a try! There’s nothing quite as rewarding as seeing a pattern repeat come together!