Why I Create Playful Patterns
You remember the infamous year 2020, don’t you? 2020 was a crazy year!
It was crazy specifically because we were introduced to a worldwide pandemic but there was A LOT going on that year in so many ways (a very political year too).
It was also a pivotal year for me, personally. It was the year I discovered that I loved creating patterns!
It also happened to be the year that I started doing inner work that lead me to heal myself from chronic pain (see post from a few months ago for the full story on that). That work also helped me sift through so much imposter syndrome and fear of failure which has dragged at me my entire life. I began to realize that I have so much to offer.
I will never forget how that year changed my life.
I did a lot of experimenting when I began creating patterns. I did pattern challenges and also tried drawing a variety of things: florals, objects, animals, etc. I didn’t know exactly what I liked to draw yet because I hadn’t really let myself explore in digital drawing (previous graphic design work included branding projects, brochures, flyers, etc.). Drawing on my iPad was a whole new thing!
As my style began to emerge, I noticed that all of my favorite patterns had similar motifs: playful, quirky, colorful with a distinct flow. In the first pattern challenge I participate in, one of the prompts was “b o o b s”. At first I wasn’t sure I was I really wanted to do that one but then I thought about creating a fun pattern with bras strewn across the floor. I decided to try it and it became one of my favorite patterns in the whole series that month!
I then realized how much I loved creating art with every day items in a fun, playful way. Since then, my favorite patterns have included a Romantic Poetry pattern, a Candy Loot pattern, Spooky Vibes, Donuts, Floral Cats and Motel Signs!
Even if I create a classic floral pattern, it comes out with a more playful, bright and busy vibe. I have tried creating classical vintage styled floral patterns and I just can’t seem to do it! It’s just not my style!
So why not embrace it?
I fully stand by creating joyful, playful patterns. I believe we need that positivity and joy to spread around. Why not make our homes, our offices, wherever - a beautiful happy place? It fulfills me so much to create happy art and to share it with those around me.
Joyful Art the kind of art that just flows out of me (as I’ve mentioned, I really have tried other styles and they never stick). You need to create the art that flows and if you don’t create you’re own art, don’t be afraid to fill your house with the other’s art or products that “call” to you. My house is full of prints and home decor that speaks to me and invokes the positive feeling I want in my home.
If you are a sewist or maker and would like to create anything with my designs on fabric, wallpaper, or other products, definitely check out my Spoonflower Shop or Society 6 Shop! And as always, please tag me with any products you create on Instagram at @cloudeight!