Getting Started in Surface Pattern Design
“Geez, I’ve already seen this ad today, and yesterday…what is going on?” My internal dialogue as I was browsing Facebook. Finally curiosity got the better of me and I clicked the link. “Probably another get rich quick scam,” I thought. The link brought me to a landing page for a free surface pattern design workshop created and hosted by Bonnie Christine.
By this time, I had been a stay at home mom for 2 years. In that time I dove deep into trying to start a blog and monetize with affiliate marketing, emails, Pinterest, and then tying a home bakery business - anything that would help supplement income at home. I had grown beyond discouraged with the possibility of doing any sort of “business” work from home.
With that mindset, I continued to read this ad landing page and scrolling. “Well, it’s free,” I sighed as a reluctantly gave up my email. The course spanned a week with different modules and resources on what surface pattern design is, the myths in the industry, top mistakes, a roadmap to make it a successful career, and ended with a call to action to take the full, in depth Immersion course.
Over the course of that workshop, I realized a few things:
I need to stay off the internet if I’m not going to take one of these endeavors seriously and see it through
Surface pattern design is about personal art - something I can create and share with the world. This felt different from the idea of trying to sell random products.
The freedom and flexibility of this path would give me control over my schedule, location, and creativity.
Designing can serve both digital or online markets AND physical, in-person clients if I hope to have a storefront for customized work someday
If nothing else, I can learn a new skill and tool with Adobe Illustrator in case I need to ever go back to the workforce.
I convinced myself I could do it - I can take this Immersion course and create a legacy my children can be proud of. I can help supplement our income to relieve some of the burden on my husband. I can do ONE thing a day to get there.
I brought my intentions to prayer, asking for peace and clarity to align God’s will to any decisions. It was a huge financial investment (OVER HALF our monthly income) and would require taking out of savings. Through prayer I felt the pulled to finally share this with my husband - God sure knew what he was doing with that one!
My husband was ecstatic for me.
He immediately said to go for it - “I trust you and think this is a great opportunity for you, whether it works out or not. The money won’t matter if it means this much to you!”
Investing in Myself
The 8 week Immersion course kicked off with a package of materials: workbook, keyboard shortcuts, field note sketchbook, highlights, sticky notes. Each module was an in-depth guide into all aspects of the surface pattern world - from inspiration, the technical programs, branding, licensing, contracts and many things in between. All this was accompanied by an online community of fellow peers, administrators and experts to answer questions and provide encouragement.
At the time of writing this, we are wrapping up week 8 and eagerly awaiting the graduation ceremony next Wednesday. While managing a household, being 9 months pregnant, and caring for 2 toddler boys full-time, here is all I’ve accomplished in that time:
Completed a full, 11 pattern collection in 2 colorways
Brainstormed patterns for my next full collection and 5 mini collections
Uploaded my first design to Spoonflower
Named my business
Created an email account
Created an Instagram page
Created a website on Squarespace
At this stage, it feels…possible. Which is more then what I can say about prior endeavors. I am taking things slowly, focusing on doing one thing a day (a Bonnie motto,) and ensuring each step is taken to prayer before excitement or stress.
Creating a Future in Surface Pattern Design
There is still much to be done before I can release the imposter syndrome and truly call myself a surface pattern designer. Perhaps is making my first sale, signing my first licensing contract, helping my first custom client - not sure when that moment will sink in, but I know it will come.
For now, I’m curb walking and eating my dates to get ready for our sweet little girl due any day. I’m going to get my website complete. I’m going to set up an email platform and sequence. I’m going to start dinner for my family. I’m going to sketch a motif for my next collection. I’m going to hang the load of laundry to dry….. I’m going to continue to move forward on this path. Check back in to see my progress!
