From Sketch to Surface: How a Pattern Comes to Life

From Idea to Inspiration

Every pattern I design begins with a spark — sometimes it’s a color I can’t stop thinking about, a flower that caught my eye on a morning walk, or even the shape of shadows on my kitchen counter. Inspiration rarely announces itself; it just shows up quietly, waiting to be noticed.

I keep sketchbooks, photos, and color swatches nearby because I never know when something will spark the start of a new collection. Sometimes, it begins with a single doodle or a color pairing that makes my heart skip. From there, the creative journey begins.

Sketching the Story

Once the inspiration feels ready to take shape, I start sketching — loosely and playfully. This is my favorite stage because there’s no pressure for perfection, only exploration. I let my pencil or stylus move freely, experimenting with shapes, spacing, and flow.

Each line tells a small part of the story. Whether it’s a whimsical floral, a geometric repeat, or a retro-inspired motif, this stage captures the emotion behind the idea — joy, nostalgia, serenity, or something new entirely.

Bringing It to Life Digitally

After sketching, I scan or draw digitally and begin refining the design on my tablet. This is where the real transformation happens — cleaning up lines, adjusting spacing, and experimenting with repeat patterns.

Then comes one of the most exciting (and challenging) parts: color. I build color palettes that evoke a specific feeling or season — soft peaches and sands for warmth, moody lilacs for calm, or bright berries for cheer. Every hue is chosen intentionally to help tell the story of the collection.

From Design to Surface

Once the final repeat is perfected, I bring the patterns to life on mockups — fabric swatches, wallpaper, pillows, or stationery. Seeing the design on a tangible surface is always magical. It’s the moment when art becomes something real — ready to be sewn, displayed, or shared.

This is where everything comes full circle. What started as a simple sketch inspired by everyday beauty now becomes something others can enjoy in their homes, crafts, or creative projects.

The Joy of Sharing the Process

Designing surface patterns isn’t just about making something pretty — it’s about capturing a moment or mood and turning it into something others can connect with. Every step, from the first sketch to the final product, reminds me why I love what I do: creating beauty that brings joy to everyday life.

Whether you’re a fellow creative, a maker, or someone who just loves color and pattern, I hope you enjoyed this little peek behind the scenes of my process.

Ready to see more?
Explore my latest collections on Spoonflower, Etsy, or Raspberry Creek Fabrics and discover how these designs come to life on fabric, wallpaper, and home décor.