What is Surface Pattern Design?
When I say that I’m a Surface Pattern Designer, do you sometimes scratch your head and wonder, “What does that even mean?!” Well, let me explain in a bit more depth what exactly it all means!
In the most basic terms, surface pattern design ( or SPD) is all about creating unique, repeatable designs (or patterns) that can be applied to a variety of surfaces. These surfaces include fabric, wallpaper, and much more. It’s the art that you see on your favorite bedspread, the vibrant wallpaper in your living room, or even your favorite patterned shirt, tie, or dress.
Whether it’s florals, geometric shapes, or even stripes, surface pattern design is a key component of many of your favorite products and can be found EVERY WHERE! Just take a look around you right now, in your home, work, or favorite coffee shop. If you pay attention, you’ll begin to see all the patterns around you, and a surface pattern designer created those patterns!
Creating a surface pattern involves several steps, starting with inspiration and concept development. Designers often draw from nature, culture, art movements, and personal experiences. This inspiration is then translated into sketches and digital designs using various tools and software. Some of the most popular are Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, and Procreate.
Below, I’ll share some of the most common applications for SPD:
Textiles:From fashion to home decor, fabrics are one of the most common applications. Think of the beautiful prints on dresses, curtains, and upholstery.
Wallpaper: Patterns add character and depth to interior spaces. Whether it’s a bold statement wall or a subtle background, wallpaper patterns are a crucial element in interior design.
Stationery: Notebooks, planners, and greeting cards often feature unique patterns that make them stand out. You can also include wash tape to this category.
Products: Everyday items like phone cases, laptop covers, kitchenware, and even packaging use surface patterns to attract consumers and add visual interest.
There’s so many applications for SPD in our every day life! This industry offers opportunities for licensing artwork to companies that produce consumer goods. This means that a designer’s patterns can appear on a wide range of products that can reach a huge audience.
So, the next time you admire a patterned fabric or a beautifully designed piece of stationery, you’ll know that a talented surface pattern designer brought it to life, and maybe one day, that artist will be you!
xo,
Jess
