Patterns are a timeless design element that have the power to transform any product into something unique and eye-catching. From clothing to home decor, patterns can be used in a variety of ways to enhance the look and feel of a product, while also offering a range of commercial opportunities for designers.
In this article, we'll explore the potential of patterns as a profitable product for designers. We'll discuss the various ways in which patterns can be used to create products for sale, the different types of products that can be created using patterns, and the best practices for creating patterns that are both visually appealing and commercially viable.
The Potential of Patterns
Patterns have been a popular design element for centuries, and their appeal shows no signs of waning. In fact, with the rise of digital technology, patterns have become more accessible and versatile than ever before. Anyone who has (as a minimum) a tablet and a program like Procreate or Affinity Designer can create a pattern. That's what I show in my class "From Procreate to Pattern"
One of the key benefits of patterns is their versatility. They can be used in a wide range of products, from clothing and accessories to home decor and stationery. And with the increasing popularity of print-on-demand services like Spoonflower, designers can easily turn their patterns into a variety of products for sale.
Another benefit of patterns is their ability to create a unique brand identity. By creating a signature pattern, designers can establish a recognisable brand that customers will associate with their products.
Types of Products that Use Patterns
Patterns can be used to create a wide range of products, including:
- Fabric: Patterns are a popular choice for fabric design, and can be used to create everything from clothing and accessories to upholstery and curtains.
- Wallpaper: Patterns can be used to create unique and eye-catching wallpaper designs, adding a touch of personality and style to any room.
- Stationery: From notebooks to greeting cards, patterns are a great way to add a personal touch to any stationery product.
- Home decor: Patterns can be used to create a range of home decor products, from cushions and throws to rugs and lampshades.
- But that's not all! Here at Digidesignresort we discuss the power of digital products and patterns can also be a digital product. You can create a set of patterns around a topic and then you can sell it as a digital download. If you wanna see the possibilities this offers have a look at Etsy, for example, and type in "seamless pattern".
Best Practices for Creating Patterns
Creating a successful pattern involves more than just selecting a few colors and motifs. To create a pattern that will resonate with customers and stand out in a crowded market, designers should consider the following best practices:
Conclusion
Patterns are a versatile and powerful design element that can be used to create a wide range of products for sale. By creating patterns that are visually appealing and commercially viable, designers can tap into a profitable market that shows no signs of slowing down. So why not explore the potential of patterns for your own designs? With a bit of creativity and a solid marketing strategy, patterns could be the key to building a successful and rewarding career in design.
A good starting point is my free class "Learn Procreate for Beginners". This class helps you to get used to Procreate to start designing patterns.