What I Keep Coming Back To: Encouragement for Surface Pattern Designers
When I first discovered surface pattern design, I had no idea how deeply it would change my life. I was hooked—but honestly? I was terrified too. I worried I wouldn’t finish what I started (a pattern in my life), and I was convinced I couldn’t draw well enough to succeed. Imposter syndrome showed up a lot.
But here’s the truth I’ve learned: surface pattern design is about more than perfect drawings. It’s about creative practice, persistence, and using what you do have—whether that’s simple sketches, photographs, vintage ephemera, or even old letters. Anything you can scan or digitize can become beautiful pattern design.
I’m still new in this industry, and I resonate deeply with other beginners. But these reminders have helped me stay the course—and whether you’re just starting out, curious about what surface pattern design is, or a seasoned designer needing a little lift, I hope they help you too.
1. Every great designer started exactly where you are.
Confused, overwhelmed, and wondering if they were “good enough.” You’re not behind.
Confused, overwhelmed, and wondering if they were “good enough.” You’re not behind.
2. Master your tools—but focus on making.
Learning Procreate, Illustrator, and other software is helpful, but consistent creative work matters more than perfecting the tech.
Learning Procreate, Illustrator, and other software is helpful, but consistent creative work matters more than perfecting the tech.
3. Moodboards are not procrastination.
They’re part of the process. Gather inspiration freely and let ideas bloom in their own time.
They’re part of the process. Gather inspiration freely and let ideas bloom in their own time.
4. You don't have to post everything.
Some work is just for learning—and that’s more than okay.
Some work is just for learning—and that’s more than okay.
5. Imposter syndrome is normal.
That voice of doubt? Every designer you admire has heard it too.
That voice of doubt? Every designer you admire has heard it too.
6. It's ok to trace while you are learning.
Tracing helps train your eye and hand—just be honest, and keep growing your own style.
Tracing helps train your eye and hand—just be honest, and keep growing your own style.
7. You are not too late.
The industry isn’t saturated—it’s waiting for your voice and vision.
The industry isn’t saturated—it’s waiting for your voice and vision.
8. You're already an artist.
Not “trying to be.” Not “someday.” If you’re showing up, you’re already doing it—and that’s what counts.
Not “trying to be.” Not “someday.” If you’re showing up, you’re already doing it—and that’s what counts.
9. Find your style by showing up consistently.
Style isn’t something you pick—it’s something you grow into. The more you create, the clearer your artistic voice becomes.
Style isn’t something you pick—it’s something you grow into. The more you create, the clearer your artistic voice becomes.
10. Keep growing, keep going.
Surface pattern design is a journey, not a race. Stay rooted in your why, and keep going.
Surface pattern design is a journey, not a race. Stay rooted in your why, and keep going.
At the end of the day, surface pattern design isn’t about perfection—it’s about heart, persistence, and trusting that your creative voice matters. Whether you’re picking up a pencil for the first time, building your first collection, or just looking for a little creative encouragement, know this: you’re not alone, and you are capable. Every pattern, every wobble, every win—it all counts.
If you’d love more support, vintage-inspired freebies, and thoughtful inspiration straight to your inbox, I’d be honored to have you in my creative community.
With Love,
Shelby