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Digital Artist? Become a Surface Pattern Designer
This article will cover everything a digital artist needs to know to become a Surface Pattern Designer.

Is your digital art full of colors, textures, and patterns? Want to make money from your creativity? You should become a Surface Pattern Designer. From fabrics to wallpaper, surface patterns are everywhere and now with the use of digital tools, getting started is easier than ever.
What is Surface pattern design?
Surface pattern design is the art of creating patterns that are applied to various surfaces. These designs can be as simple as Stripes and Polka Dots or as complex as a Pastel Floral Arrangement. In truth, Surface Patterns are everywhere such as fashion, home decor, stationery, and more. Because surface design can be applied to many areas it is a rewarding career path for many creatives and artists. In fact, my love of patterns and inability to stick to one thing is how I became interested in Surface Design.

How to become a surface pattern designer
In my journey to start a Surface Pattern Design Career, I have determined the 3 Steps you need to follow to become a Surface Pattern Designer and start making money with your art.
Step 1: learn surface pattern design
Every journey begins with learning the craft. While some people may have a natural knack for design, honing your skills through practice and education is essential. You can start with learning the basics of Digital Illustration such as drawing shapes and forms digitally.
surface pattern design software
To create professional-grade patterns, you’ll need to familiarize yourself with design software. The three most popular programs used by surface pattern designers are:
- Adobe Illustrator: Known for its vector-based design capabilities, Adobe Illustrator is a favorite among surface pattern designers. It allows you to create scalable patterns that maintain their quality at any size.
- Procreate: If you prefer drawing by hand, Procreate is a fantastic option, especially for those who use an iPad. It’s user-friendly and offers a wide range of brushes and tools for creating intricate patterns.
- Affinity Designer: This is a more affordable alternative to Adobe Illustrator, offering similar features without the subscription fee. It’s gaining popularity among designers who want a powerful tool without breaking the bank. But hurry and get it now. Affinity Designer was recently purchased by Canva and there may be huge changes to the software coming soon.
For any beginner, I highly recommend using Procreate. It is a $10 Apple digital art app, that uses the Apple iPad and Apple Pencil to create beautiful art instinctively. Because of the easy learning curve, this is exactly what I use to create all of my art.
Related Post: Learn All the Procreate Tips & Tricks!
surface pattern design courses
Once you know what software you will be using, it is time to start learning actual design. This is the fun part. Take the artworks you have and love and turn them into repeating patterns that could cover any surface.
Not sure what to draw? Need a little more guidance? Then take an online course to show you the basics of Surface Pattern Design. Skillshare, the online learning platform for creatives, has dozens of classes that will teach you step-by-step how to create surface patterns that you will love and customers will buy

Step 2: Create Your Surface Pattern Designer Portfolio
Your portfolio is your ticket to the industry. Once you’ve honed your skills, it’s time to showcase your work. A strong portfolio is essential for attracting clients or landing a job as a surface pattern designer.
How to create a portfolio
Your portfolio should be a reflection of your style and abilities. Start by selecting your best work, and consider including a mix of pattern types to demonstrate your versatility. Digital portfolios are the standard today, so creating a website or using a platform like Behance or Dribbble can help you reach a wider audience.
3 items your portfolio must include
- Diverse Designs: Show a range of styles and patterns. Potential clients or employers want to see that you can adapt your style to different projects.
- Mockups: Include images of your patterns applied to products like clothing, wallpaper, or stationery. This helps viewers envision how your designs can be used in real-world applications.
- Process Work: Don’t just show the finished product. Including sketches or process images can give insight into your creative process, which many clients find valuable.
How to present your work professionally
Presentation matters. Use high-quality images and ensure your portfolio is easy to navigate. Keep the design clean and focus on the content. Make sure each piece is labeled with a brief description, including the inspiration behind it and any techniques used. A well-presented portfolio not only looks professional but also tells the story of who you are as a designer.

Step 3: Make money Selling your designs
With a strong portfolio in hand, the next step is turning your designs into income. There are several avenues you can explore, depending on your goals and preferences.
surface pattern designer jobs
You can start with a job at a company. One way to make money is by working as an in-house surface pattern designer for a company. Fashion brands, home decor companies, and textile manufacturers often hire designers to create patterns for their products. This route provides stability and the opportunity to work on large-scale projects. It is also a great way to find mentorship from seasoned professionals. Why not learn while getting paid?
be a freelance surface pattern designer
If you prefer flexibility, freelancing might be the way to go. As a freelance surface pattern designer, you can work with multiple clients and on a variety of projects. Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and even social media platforms like Instagram can be great places to find clients and build a following.
build an online presence
For all artists but freelancers especially, having an online presence is essential. Start by creating social media profiles on platforms like Instagram and Pinterest, where visuals are key. Share your work regularly, including process shots and behind-the-scenes content to engage your audience. Consider starting a blog where you can share your journey, tips, and insights. This not only builds your brand but also helps you connect with other designers and potential clients.
Related Post: Why a Blog is the Best Marketing Tool!
surface pattern design business
For those with an entrepreneurial spirit, starting your own surface pattern design business could be the ultimate goal. You can sell your designs on print-on-demand sites like Spoonflower or Society6, or even create your own products featuring your patterns. This route requires more effort in marketing and business management, but it also offers the potential for higher profits.
licensing vs direct selling
As a surface pattern designer, you have two main ways to monetize your work: licensing and direct selling. Licensing involves granting a company the rights to use your design in exchange for a fee or royalties. This can be lucrative but often requires more industry connections. Direct selling, on the other hand, involves selling your designs outright or on products through print-on-demand platforms. This gives you more control but may offer lower upfront income. Consider your long-term goals when deciding which path to pursue.

Is Surface Pattern Design for Beginners?
Absolutely! Surface pattern design is accessible to beginners, especially with the wealth of resources available today. While it requires a combination of artistic talent and technical skills, anyone with a passion for design can learn and succeed in this field. It’s a versatile career path that allows you to work on a wide range of projects, and the satisfaction of seeing your designs out in the world is unmatched.
common obstacles for beginners
However, starting a career in surface pattern design can be challenging. You might struggle with learning technical skills, finding your style, or getting noticed in a crowded market. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed but remember that every designer started where you are now. The key is to stay persistent, keep learning, and not be afraid to ask for help. Set small, achievable goals and celebrate your progress along the way.
Related Post: How to Set S.M.A.R.T. Art Business Goals
staying motivated and inspired
Another obstacle you can face is a creative block or lack of inspiration. Creative blocks happen to everyone, but there are ways to push through them. Regularly expose yourself to new experiences – travel, read, visit art galleries, or simply take a walk in nature. Keep a sketchbook where you can jot down ideas, even if they seem incomplete. Surround yourself with a supportive community that encourages your growth. And most importantly, remember why you started – the love for creating and the desire to share your art with the world.

Whether you’re looking to supplement your income with freelance work or aiming to build a full-time career, surface pattern design offers a fulfilling and creative outlet. So why not give it a try? With the right tools, education, and determination, you can turn your passion for patterns into a thriving business. Don’t wait for the perfect moment to start; the best time is now. Take that first step and see where your creativity leads you.