How to Get Started with Surface Pattern Design
— Even If You Think You Can’t Design
Welcome back to The Cute Craft Conversation. I’m so happy that you decided to join. I know that some of you lovelies are here because you love handmade intentional products like my dreamy soaps, candles and earrings. However, this article is not aimed at you primarily ....so you are welcome to stop reading now:) Today I’m talking to my fellow creatives, specifically those who also want to embark on turning their art into surface pattern designs. This is one of my many many loves in the world of art and handmade(potentially undiagnosed ADHD here - LOL). Grab your cuppa, sit back and enjoy The Conversation.
Let me take you back to a tiny moment in my creative journey — a moment that lives rent-free in my memory, the moment a tiny seed was planted in my mind. I was buried deep in the mess that was (and still is) the complete renovation of our forever home. I was standing in a store, browsing beautifully patterned wallpaper, the kind that dreams are made of. I was agonising over the weighty decision of picking out the best option for my daughter's bedroom — one that would inspire her now but also grow with her. I remember whispering to myself, “Who on earth designs these? And how do they make it look so easy?”
Immediately after that whisper came the laugh — the oh-not-me sort of laugh. Because I wasn’t “a designer.” I didn’t have art-school confidence, I wasn’t an illustrator, and my doodles looked more like confused shapes than intentional motifs. I’ve always loved all things creative, but at that time my only hesitation in picking up a paintbrush was time restrictions and the nagging feeling at the back of my mind… that’s one more painting you’ll have to find space for in the craft room. My work was just piling up — not being seen or used. Its hard to to keep on painting when you are surrounded by some of the worlds most inspiring natural beauty - feast your eyes on this cutie… long time resident at my local reptile park (only seen a koala one in the wild!)
Elsa the Koala
It felt wrong that my work was just piling up, because I had a longing to surround my family with the natural beauty, fun, and whimsy that my art encapsulates — the stories of our everyday lives and adventures captured in each brushstroke or picture. I simply lacked the confidence and knowledge to make my art live and bring beauty into our everyday life — into the objects and things we love, use, and hold.
If that sounds anything like you — or if you’re simply curious about the world of surface pattern design — you’re in the perfect place.
Here’s the truth: surface pattern design is absolutely accessible, even if you’ve never considered yourself a designer. You don’t need fancy tools. You don’t need decades of drawing experience. And you certainly don’t need permission to start.
What you do need are a few simple tools, a little curiosity, and a gentle walkthrough of what the process looks like. So grab your tea, settle in, and let’s explore the world of surface pattern design together. I am by no means an expert — I’m learning from those who have walked this path before me, and I’m inviting you to start your journey right here beside me.
Did I mention that I’m simply nuts about gums?
1. What Is Surface Pattern Design — & Why Does It Matter?
Surface pattern design is one of those terms that sounds a bit grand until you realise it’s everywhere. Truly everywhere.
Look around you right now:
• The print on your mug
• The cushion on your sofa
• Your phone case
• Gift wrap
• Your favourite scarf
Someone designed every single one of those patterns.
At its simplest, surface pattern design is the art of creating repeating artwork that can be applied to surfaces — fabric, stationery, wallpaper, homewares, packaging, digital products, and so much more.
Why It’s So Appealing
Creative expression:
Take everyday inspirations and turn them into something usable. No more artwork gathering dust!
Licensing opportunities:
Companies license artwork to put on products — and you earn royalties. This is the ultimate goal for many surface pattern designers.
Passive-ish income:
Once a design is created, it can be sold and licensed multiple times.
Accessible styles:
You don’t have to be an illustrator. Patterns can be abstract, geometric, whimsical, minimal — anything you love. My own patterns capture everyday moments and memories.
2. Tools & Materials to Begin (Minimal & Beginner-Friendly)
One of the biggest myths is that surface pattern designers need fancy studios full of expensive tools. Not true. You can start with whatever feels comfortable.
Traditional Tools
Perfect if you love the tactile feeling of pen on paper:
• A sketchbook
• Pencils or fineliners
• Watercolour or gouache
• Markers or brush pens
These are wonderful for creating organic, hand-drawn motifs.
Digital Tools
Great if you prefer flexibility — and the option to “undo.”
• iPad + Procreate
• Scanner + Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator
• Canva + Photopea (budget-friendly alternatives)
And please don’t feel pressured to buy everything. Bonnie Christine’s Start Simple in Surface Pattern Design is a lovely reminder that you can begin with whatever you already own. Amanda Grace Design also offers a fantastic list of free beginner resources.
Further Reading & Helpful Resources
Look up the following if you want to do further research on the amazing world of surface pattern design:
• The Complete Guide to Surface Pattern Design — Design2Repeat
• Start Simple in Surface Pattern Design — Bonnie Christine
• Amanda Grace Design — Free resources
• Quick Start Guide to Surface Pattern Design — Craft Industry Alliance
• YouTube tutorials (e.g., Gina Maldonado’s pattern design video)
OK my friends - are you intrigued. Or already head over heels like I am… either way - check out the extra resources…gather your inspo and tools, dream a little of the possibilities and join me in my next post for a mini project to get you kick started. And if you are an artist already…remember to carve out the time from our everyday business to ….just keep painting (or creating). Enjoy!
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Just keep painting….