Here you can find some useful design resources I have found along the long winding road. These recommendations are websites I’ve visited, books I’ve read, courses I’ve taken; they have enriched immensely my life as a designer.
Please note that some links are affiliate links. This means that they will give me a small commission if you buy from them through Pitter Pattern (with no extra cost to you). I, though, only recommend things that I’ve used as a designer and I’ve loved. I DO NOT recommend or endorse anything that I haven’t experienced myself AND liked!
Skillshare online class • Intro to Surface Pattern Design: Learn Adobe Illustrator | Create Patterns with Bonnie Christine
“This course is designed for the person who dreams of creating their own repeating patterns. After spending years learning how to become a surface pattern designer on my own, I’ve become passionate about sharing my knowledge with others. For this course, I have compiled all the necessary skills and knowledge you need to begin designing!” – Bonnie Christine
Skillshare online class • Surface Pattern Design 2.0: Design a Collection | Start a Career with Bonnie Christine
“This course is designed for the person who dreams of becoming a professional surface pattern designer. I’ll walk you step by step through the process of creating a pattern collection that is unique and engaging, and I’m sharing all of my industry secrets with you along the way! We’ll discuss what to include in your portfolio and how to begin contacting companies to start your career.” – Bonnie Christine
Skillshare online class • Design & Bind Your Own Creative Portfolio with Bonnie Christine
“I’m really excited to share this course with you, because it has a little something for everyone in it. It’s also NOT just for surface pattern designers! Photographers, illustrators, painters, artists, writers and creatives of all kinds will learn how to present their work.” – Bonnie Christine
Skillshare online class • Introduction to Designing Repeat Patterns in Illustrator with Elizabeth Olwen
“This a perfect introductory class for every designer, illustrator, and crafter looking to expand their skills into pattern design. Once you have your pattern, consider using it as digital desktop wallpaper, the base for an iPhone case or printed fabric, or even as inspiration for stationery. The possibilities are endless!” – Skillshare
Skillshare online class • Pattern Design II: A Creative Look at a Full Pattern Collection with Elizabeth Olwen
“In 10 bite-sized lessons, Elizabeth introduces each element that becomes part of a larger, cohesive collection: moodboards, 3 main pattern types (hero, blender, secondary), a “logo-like” spot graphic, a name, and a story. Each video lesson includes tips and examples from Elizabeth’s own work. Plus, an exclusive class handout provides easy reference.” – Skillshare
Skillshare online class • Pattern Design: Bring Your Artwork to Life on Products with Elizabeth Olwen
“When Elizabeth first started out as a surface designer, seeing her work on products for the first time felt magical. It opened up a world of possibilities for her patterns, designs, and illustrations. In this class, her goal is help you take that same leap — from concept to the tangible world, unlocking infinite possibilities.” – Skillshare
Online course • The Art & Business of Surface Pattern Design
“Make it in Design is the world’s leading online school for textile, print and surface pattern design. A collaboration between internationally-acclaimed surface pattern designer Rachael Taylor and award-winning entrepreneur Beth Kempton, founder of Do What You Love, Make it in Design’s courses are delivered online and accessible from anywhere in the world.” – Make It In Design
Online course • Design Surface Patterns From Scratch with Bonnie Christine
“Join Bonnie Christine for an introduction to creating patterns to use in your very own fabric prints, stationery designs, website backgrounds, cell phone covers, and much, much more. This course will lay a solid foundation for those new to Illustrator and open up exciting new possibilities for people already familiar with the program. If you are ready to bring your drawings to life in new ways this class is for you.” – CreativeLive
Online course • Make Art That Sells with Lilla Rogers
“We offer advanced online courses to support your professional portfolio development and business skills. Our courses will help you understand the top ten most lucrative markets for art, and show you how to make your work more commercially appealing in each of those markets, massively expanding your income potential.” – Make Art That Sells
Online courses • Textile Design Lab
“Get the information, inspiration and support you need to succeed in textile design. As a TDL member, learning is never lonely. You’ll join like-minded artists and designers in courses on everything from technical skills like patterns and repeats to the business know-how you need to market and sell your work. Our guest experts will share insider tips and perspectives you won’t find anywhere else. Best of all, you’ll be invited to our private forum where you can make lifelong friends and build industry connections you’ll use throughout your career.” – Textile Design Lab