Getting out of my pattern design rut

Have you ever been stuck in a rut? You know, that feeling when your creative endeavors seem to be running in circles, stuck in a never-ending loop of the same old thing? I’ve been there too, and recently I realized I needed to step up my surface pattern designs.

For a while, I found myself designing the same tossed repeat patterns every time I sat down to create. It felt like I was on a creative treadmill, making variations of the same design without truly exploring new horizons.

Embracing the Learning Curve

I challenged myself to break free from the monotony and push my creative boundaries. The world of creative education is vast, and one platform that became my go-to resource is Skillshare.

I began by enrolling in Skillshare classes that delved into various aspects of design and pattern-making. These classes offered me fresh perspectives, techniques, and insights from experienced instructors. It wasn’t just about acquiring new skills; it was about embracing the learning curve and opening myself up to possibilities I had never explored before.  Classes by Liz Kohler Brown, Maja Faber and Cat Coquillette were really helpful. The tutorials not only taught me new techniques but also ignited my creative passion.

The Power of Expanding Your Creative Horizons

Learning something new is like opening a door to a world of opportunities. It challenges your existing notions and allows you to discover hidden talents and passions. In my case, it was the challenge of creating a better pattern design.

By exploring different design techniques, color schemes, and composition styles, I was able to add depth and variety to my portfolio. The beauty of creativity lies in its endless possibilities, and I was thrilled to see my pattern work taking a new and exciting direction.

A Journey of Continuous Improvement

While my creative rut has been overcome, I strongly believe that there are always new things to challenge yourself with and to learn. Creativity is an ever-evolving journey, and it’s essential to maintain a growth mindset.

I acknowledge that I will always have room for improvement in my craft, and that’s perfectly fine. The journey of self-discovery and creative growth is ongoing, and there’s always a new technique to master, a fresh perspective to gain, and a novel approach to explore. This constant pursuit of improvement is what keeps things interesting.

If you ever find yourself stuck in a creative rut, remember that there’s a world of inspiration and knowledge waiting for you to explore. Embrace the opportunity to learn something new, whether it’s through online classes, workshops, or collaborations with fellow creatives.