First, let me define ‘pattern.’ If you have taken one of my art classes, you know that when you doodle or zendraw to use my term, you first create an outline with different shapes. This can be done in many ways. I won’t go into all of that here. Then, you fill in your outline with a pattern. A sequence of lines and smaller shapes that is repeating. So, where do you find ideas? Oh, so many places can provide inspiration for new patterns. Here are six of them. NatureThink about all the different patterns and shapes in nature. There’s the veins in a leaf, the bark on a tree, the swirls in the water. Nature has a virtually unlimited number of places to find pattern ideas. This butterfly has wings with ovals of varying sizes set on a black background. DishesDishes come with all sorts of different patterns printed on them. Sure, some are solid colored, but many have some of the most unique patterns I have ever seen. These bowls make use of straight lines with solid dots inside. Coloring BooksColoring books are a great place to find pattern ideas. You don’t even have to limit yourself to just the coloring books with all those details. Even the coloring books for young children have a plethora of pattern ideas choose from. A coloring book page of Dumbo from the Disney movie, for example, has a design on the elephant’s collar and designs on the mouse’s clothes. MoviesMovies have the potential to inspire more patterns than any of the other suggestions on this list if you are willing to keep your eyes peeled. Movies have patterns in the clothing, on the walls, in the furniture, outside. Movies incorporate all of the other things on this list. Don’t be afraid to pause that movie and look carefully for new ideas. Pay special attention to the background. You might even notice a few easter eggs in your favorite televisions shows. I can’t include an image for copyright reasons, but you get the idea. ClothesNot only can you find pattern ideas on fabric, but you can find ideas on the designs on the front of shirts, shoes and even pants. If you look really closely, this sweater has a texture that almost looks like several zippers zipped together. BooksBooks with illustrations or photographs offer all sorts of different patterns. This illustration from my book “Kindergarten Mishaps” has polka dots on Mrs. Fairy’s dress and books on the bookshelf that could look really cool if drawn top to bottom. FabricsYou can go to a fabric store and look at fabrics sold by the yard. You can take an extra look at your blankets and sheets. Tablecloths often have very pretty and elegant designs. Any fabric with any design can be the source of inspiration for your next new pattern. Notice the crosshatching on this fleece. It has three different grids laid on top of eachother. Patterns don’t have to be complicated. They can be found just about anywhere. The more you look for patterns, the more you will have at your disposal. Remember, though, it is perfectly okay to reuse patterns, even in the same piece. Chances are, no one will notice, and even if they do it will not change their opinion of your drawing. ChallengeCreate at least 3 patterns inspired by something on this list. Post them to the Perfect Imperfection Facebook Page here. Be sure to include what inspired each of them!
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About MerissaI love art, in every form. I have done a little bit of a lot of things. I love to write, draw, paint, crochet, sew, embroider, create little gifts out of recyclables and so much more. I have little bit of experience in theater, dance and gymnastics. I published a book for children in 2014 and have won a few awards for my writing. ArchivesCategories |