10 Great Christmas Gift Ideas, the Artist in Your Life, Would Love to Receive: Wish List 2023

Christmas List

The Joy of Giving Art Supplies as Christmas Gifts and the Importance of Quality

The holiday season is a time of joy, warmth, and the thoughtful exchange of gifts that hold a special meaning. For the artist in your life, whether a seasoned professional or a budding enthusiast, nothing quite matches the excitement and appreciation elicited by the gift of art supplies. These gifts are more than just tools; they are an extension of the artist's vision, a means to explore their creativity, and an expression of support for their passion.

The importance of selecting quality art supplies cannot be overstated. High-quality materials can significantly enhance the artistic experience. They offer better performance, such as richer pigments in paints, finer precision in drawing tools, and greater durability and ease of use overall. These characteristics not only improve the creation process but also ensure that the artworks produced stand the test of time.

You’ll find something to suit all budgets in my list, luxury art supplies don’t always come with a luxurious price tag to match.

Affiliate Disclosure

Dear Readers,

As the curator of this blog, I am committed to sharing with you not only my passion and insights but also carefully selected products and services that resonate with our shared appreciation for quality and sophistication. It is with this ethos in mind that I wish to disclose an important aspect of my blog.

In the spirit of transparency and trust, I would like to inform you that some of the links featured on this blog are affiliate links. This means that, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase through these links. Please rest assured that my decision to engage in affiliate partnerships is guided by my genuine belief in the quality and relevance of the products or services I recommend.

I understand the value of your trust, and I assure you that the inclusion of an affiliate link does not influence my editorial content or sway my opinions. Each product or service I endorse is chosen with care, considering its potential to enrich your experiences and lifestyle.

Should you have any questions about this disclosure or the products mentioned, please do not hesitate to reach out. Your engagement and feedback are cherished and contribute immensely to the refinement and growth of this blog.

With warm regards and a commitment to elegance and authenticity,

Debbie

The Christmas Wish List

iPad Pro with Apple Pencil

iPad Pro (shown here with Procreate software).

iPad Pro with Apple Pencil: A Dream Gift for Artists This Christmas

As the holiday season approaches, I find myself excitedly compiling my wish list as an artist and creative enthusiast. And let me tell you, at the top of that list would be the iPad Pro coupled with the Apple Pencil. Why? Because this dynamic duo has truly transformed the way I create digital art. It's not just a gadget; it's become my canvas, my studio, and my creative companion – all neatly packaged into one sleek device.

Let me start by saying that owning an iPad Pro and Apple Pencil is an experience like no other. The flexibility, precision, and power it offers are truly unparalleled. Every stroke of the pencil feels natural, as if I'm seamlessly transferring my thoughts and ideas onto the digital canvas. It has taken my art to a whole new level, allowing me to experiment, explore, and push the boundaries of my creativity. But it's not just about the features and technology, owning an iPad Pro and Apple Pencil is an investment in my passion. It's a tool that grows with me, adapting to my evolving style and continually offering new ways to explore my artistic potential.

This Christmas, I can wholeheartedly vouch for this amazing tool. The gift of an iPad Pro (don’t forget to buy the pencil too!), would be like giving the artist in your like endless joy and inspiration. It's truly a gift that will keep on giving!

---

Faber-Castell Art & Graphic - Limited Edition

Faber-Castell Limited Edition

Faber-Castell Art & Graphic Limited Edition Set: The Ultimate Dream Gift for Artists

Unveiling the Faber-Castell Art & Graphic - Limited Edition wooden cased art and graphic set, a treasure trove that transcends mere art supplies, evoking the nostalgia and excitement akin to receiving a colossal box of Crayola crayons as a child. Imagine that childhood elation magnified as the artist in your life unwraps this limited edition masterpiece on Christmas morning.

This set is not just an assortment of art materials; it's a journey through the highest echelons of creative expression. Encased in an exquisitely crafted wooden box, the Faber-Castell Art & Graphic set is the epitome of luxury and sophistication in the world of art supplies. This ultimate collection boasts an unparalleled array of pencils, charcoals, watercolour pencils, and pens, each piece reflecting Faber-Castell's commitment to superior quality and precision.

The pencils, renowned for their smooth, richly pigmented cores, offer an unmatched color experience, blending effortlessly to bring your artistic visions to life. The charcoals and graphite tools in the set provide a range of tones and textures, perfect for expressive sketches and powerful monochromatic drawings. The watercolor pencils, a harmonious blend of drawing and painting, elevate traditional techniques with their versatility and vibrant hues.

Every item in this limited edition set has been thoughtfully selected to cater to both the technical needs and the creative whims of artists. Whether you're a professional artist or a passionate hobbyist, this collection is a dream gift, a source of endless inspiration and a means to explore new dimensions of your artistic talent.

---

Schmincke HORADAM AQUARELL Premium Set

Schmincke Horsham Aquarell Watercolour Paint Box

Schmincke HORADAM AQUARELL Premium Set: A Symphony of Colour for the Discerning Artist

Indulge in the epitome of artistic luxury with the Schmincke HORADAM AQUARELL Premium Paint Box, a treasure trove that is every watercolour artist's dream. This exquisite set is far more than just a collection of paints; it's a celebration of colour, quality, and craftsmanship, elegantly presented in a stunning wooden box that speaks of classic elegance and durability.

At the heart of this set lies 47 of Schmincke's finest watercolours. Known for their exceptional quality, these HORADAM AQUARELL paints boast intense pigmentation, offering a spectrum of colours that are both vibrant and nuanced. Each hue is carefully formulated to provide maximum brilliance and clarity, ensuring that your watercolour works are imbued with depth and life. Whether you're layering, blending, or creating delicate washes, these paints respond beautifully, giving you unparalleled control and artistic freedom.

Complementing the paints is a finely crafted porcelain palette, a classic choice for watercolour artists. The palette's smooth surface is ideal for mixing and holding your colours, allowing for precise colour blending. Its weight and quality add a touch of sophistication to your painting experience, making every brush stroke a pleasure.

The set also includes two daVinci brushes, renowned for their superior quality. These brushes are the perfect tools for applying Schmincke's watercolours, with bristles that hold the perfect amount of paint and water, offering a balance of control and fluidity. The brushes' fine tips allow for precise detailing, while their robust construction ensures they maintain their shape over time.

Encased in the beautiful wooden box, this Schmincke HORADAM AQUARELL set is not just an artistic tool but a piece of art in itself. The box provides not only a safe and organized storage solution but also adds an air of sophistication to your art collection. Its fine craftsmanship and timeless design make it a worthy heirloom to be cherished for generations.

In summary, the Schmincke HORADAM AQUARELL Premium Paint Box is more than a watercolour set; it's a luxury experience for the discerning artist. From the richness of the colours to the elegance of the presentation, every aspect of this set has been crafted to inspire and elevate your artistic journey.

---

Epson EcoTank ET-2856 Three-In-One Wi-Fi Printer

Epson EcoTank ET-2856

Epson EcoTank ET-2856: Best Printer by a Longshot

As an artist, I've always been on the lookout for the perfect printer that not only delivers exceptional print quality but is also economical in the long run. After a series of trials and errors over the years, I've finally found my match in the Epson EcoTank ET-2856. I must say, it's more expensive than the regular home printer, but I can honestly say that it’s the best printer I've ever owned, and I'm excited to share my experience with it.

The Epson EcoTank ET-2856 stands out primarily for its outstanding print quality. The colors it produces are vivid and true-to-life, which is crucial for my artwork reproductions. The level of detail it captures is impressive, making sure that every nuance of my original artwork is reflected in the prints.

What truly sets the Epson EcoTank ET-2856 apart is its cost-effectiveness. The printer uses a cartridge-free ink system, which is not only better for the environment but also significantly reduces the cost of ink. I've been able to save a substantial amount on ink since I started using this printer. The refillable ink tanks are easy to use and last for an incredibly long time. As an artist who prints frequently, this has been a game-changer. Setting it up was a breeze, and I found using the app on my iPhone intuitive and straightforward. It's versatile too – whether I'm printing on regular paper or more specialized media for my artwork, the results are consistently excellent.

If the artist in your life has been looking for the perfect home printer, then look no further. They will not be disappointed.

---

Smythson of Bond Street - Business Cards

Smythson of Bond Street - Business Cards

Smythson of Bond Street - A Luxury Statement

When curating a luxury wish list for Christmas for the artist in your life, you wouldn’t expect to see business cards, but for artists who appreciate the finer details, these business cards from Smythson of Bond Street are an absolute must-include. As someone who has personally experienced the exceptional quality of Smythson's products through my annual Christmas card purchases, I can attest to the outstanding craftsmanship that goes into each piece. Smythson of Bond Street isn't just about products; it's about a legacy of quality and elegance.

Founded in 1887, Smythson of Bond Street has a rich history intertwined with British luxury and craftsmanship. Over the years, they have established themselves as purveyors of high-quality stationery, leather goods, and more, garnering a reputation that is both prestigious and enduring. Their commitment to excellence is evident in every product, a testament to their deep-rooted heritage in the luxury goods sector.

Now, let's talk about their business cards. These are by no means a cheap option! Oh no, but this is a blog post is about a luxury wish list, and these beautifully made business cards definitely stand out in a crowd. The attention to detail in every card is remarkable, from the choice of the finest papers to the precision of the printing technique. Each card is a small piece of art, showcasing the brand's mastery over its craft.

Understated and utterly professional, these business cards speak volumes about the person they’re representing. The simplicity of the design, combined with the quality of the material, makes them more than just a means of sharing contact information; they are a statement of sophistication and professionalism. Holding a Smythson business card gives a sense of confidence and pride, reflecting a personal brand that values quality and finesse.

In a world where first impressions are crucial, a Smythson of Bond Street business card can set the tone for a memorable introduction. For artists and professionals looking to make an impact, investing in these luxurious business cards is a decision that pays dividends in establishing a distinguished personal brand. They embody a blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary elegance, making them a coveted item on any luxury wish list this Christmas.

---

ATWORTH Deluxe French Sketchbox Easel

Deluxe French Sketchbox Easel

ATWORTH Deluxe French Sketchbox Easel: A Blend of Beauty and Practicality for Artists

Let me introduce you to the ATWORTH Deluxe French Sketchbox Easel - an absolute gem for any artist who, like me, appreciates the finer things in life. This isn't just any easel; it's a perfect fusion of elegant design and practicality. Available in three gorgeous wood finishes, it caters to every artist's personal style, whether you're drawn to a classic charm, a touch of rustic elegance, or a sleek, modern aesthetic.

As someone who believes in the beauty of art extending beyond the canvas, I find this easel a delight to the eyes. It's not just functional; it's a piece of art in itself, enhancing the aesthetic of any space it graces. The natural beauty of the wood, highlighted in each finish option, adds a touch of sophistication to your studio or wherever you choose to create.

Now, talking about its functionality - as an artist who loves to explore and paint in different environments, the portability of the ATWORTH Deluxe French Sketchbox Easel is a game-changer. It's designed to be lightweight and easy to carry, making it perfect for outdoor painting sessions or impromptu art spots at home. This easel is more than just a stand for your canvas; it's a faithful companion on your artistic journeys.

The integrated sketchbox is a feature I particularly adore. It's incredibly handy for storing all those little art supplies, keeping everything organized and within reach. Plus, with adjustable angles and heights, it's versatile enough to accommodate various canvas sizes - a feature that's essential for artists with a dynamic range of projects.

In essence, the ATWORTH Deluxe French Sketchbox Easel is a true testament to what happens when functionality meets beauty. It's more than just 'pretty'; it's a practical, elegant solution for artists who value aesthetics in every aspect of their work. Owning this easel isn't just about having a tool for painting; it's about embracing a piece that complements and elevates your artistic expression.

---

Canon CanoScan LiDE 400

Cannon CanoScan LiDE 400 (scanner only)

Canon CanoScan LiDE 400: Compact Efficiency for High-Quality Scans

While it may not be the first item that comes to mind when thinking of luxury art tools, I find the Canon CanoScan LiDE 400 scanner is an indispensable asset for artists seeking to digitise their work with precision and ease and indeed, it’s the scanner I use for my artwork. This compact scanner, with its sleek and space-saving design, proves to be a highly useful tool, especially for artists who regularly work with mediums like watercolors and pencil sketches.

One of the standout features of the Canon CanoScan LiDE 400 is its exceptional scanning quality. It captures the subtle nuances of watercolor paintings, preserving the vibrancy and depth of the colors, which is often a challenge with standard scanners. The scanner's ability to accurately replicate the details and tones of pencil sketches is equally impressive. This precision ensures that digital reproductions remain true to the original artwork, an essential aspect for artists who share or print their work.

Moreover, the Canon CanoScan LiDE 400 is remarkably user-friendly. Its simple interface and straightforward functionality make the scanning process quick and hassle-free. The scanner's speed is commendable too, allowing for efficient scanning without sacrificing quality. This feature is particularly beneficial when working on projects with multiple pieces that need digitising.

---

Blackwing Pencils

Blackwing Pencils

Blackwing Pencils: The Epitome of Luxury and Precision for Artists

In the realm of artistic tools, Blackwing Pencils hold a place of honor, synonymous with unparalleled quality and a rich heritage. These pencils are more than just writing instruments; they are an extension of the artist's hand, meticulously crafted to transform creative visions into tangible art. As a personal user of Blackwing Pencils, I can attest to their premium status, with each pencil demonstrating a perfect balance of form and function. The lead in a Blackwing Pencil offers a smooth, velvety glide over the paper, providing an effortless sketching experience that is both precise and deeply satisfying. This fluidity is coupled with a durability that ensures each pencil endures through extensive use, making them a reliable companion for any artistic endeavor. The iconic design, characterized by its unique flat-sided eraser, is not just aesthetically pleasing but also highly practical, allowing for fine corrections and detailed work.

The choice of Blackwing Pencils as a Christmas gift for artists is a testament to an appreciation of luxury, craftsmanship, and the finer details that elevate artistry. These pencils don't just make a mark; they inspire, making them an indispensable tool in any artist's arsenal and a luxurious gift that resonates with sophistication and artistic excellence.

---

Blackwing Sharpener

Blackwing Sharpener

Blackwing Pencil Sharpener: The Perfect Companion for Precision and Quality

As an avid user of the esteemed Blackwing pencils, I've found that the Blackwing pencil sharpener is an essential companion to these premium drawing tools. This sharpener is not just a functional accessory; it's a testament to the brand's commitment to quality and precision.

Crafted with a sleek and durable design, the Blackwing pencil sharpener is engineered to sharpen pencils to a perfect point without causing breakage or excess wear. Its German stainless steel blades ensure a smooth, clean cut, making it a reliable tool for both artists and writers who demand consistency in their work.

What sets this sharpener apart is its two-step sharpening process. The first hole shaves the wood, exposing the graphite core, while the second hole precisely sharpens the graphite to a fine point. This method not only provides a superior sharpening experience but also prolongs the life of your Blackwing pencils, ensuring each one can be used to its fullest potential.

Compact and elegantly designed, the Blackwing pencil sharpener is a fitting extension of the luxury and sophistication that Blackwing pencils embody. Whether in a studio or on the go, it’s a must-have for anyone who values the art of writing and drawing. Owning and using this sharpener personally, I can confidently recommend it to anyone seeking the very best in their artistic tools.

---

Moleskine Sketchbook

Moleskine Sketchbook - Large 13cm x 21cm

Moleskine Sketchbooks: A Synthesis of Elegance and Functionality for Artists

As an artist who treasures the tactile experience of sketching, I have found a true companion in Moleskine Sketchbooks. These sketchbooks are not just a collection of pages; they are a curated experience, blending aesthetics with functionality in a way that elevates the art of sketching.

The paper within these Moleskine Sketchbooks is of an exceptional quality – thick, yet smooth, providing a perfect canvas for Blackwing Pencils (my choice of pencil) to glide over. The way the pencil interacts with the paper is almost poetic; each stroke is fluid, and the graphite adheres beautifully, allowing for a range of shading that is both nuanced and vivid.

Each Moleskine Sketchbook is thoughtfully designed with the artist's needs in mind. The hardcover is sturdy and elegant, offering durability and a classic look that appeals to any artist's sensibility. The binding is crafted to lay flat, ensuring ease of use whether you are out in nature or at your studio desk. This feature, in particular, makes it seamless to work across two pages, providing a broader canvas for expansive ideas.

Moreover, the portable size of these sketchbooks makes them an ideal choice for artists on the go. Whether I am capturing landscapes in the countryside or sketching urban scenes in a café, my Moleskine Sketchbook is always a reliable and discreet companion.

Experiencing the Thrill of Your First Mailing List Subscriber

First subscriber!

The Beginning of a Relationship

Starting a journey is always accompanied by a mix of excitement and uncertainty. When it comes to creating a mailing list, that thrill reaches a new level with the arrival of your first subscriber. It's a moment that signifies the beginning of a relationship, the validation of your efforts, and a glimpse into the potential impact your content can have. Let's dive into the exhilaration that comes with getting your first subscriber to your mailing list.

That first subscriber is like a digital high-five, confirming that someone out there is interested in what you have to offer. It's an affirmation that your content, brand, or product has resonated with at least one person, reinforcing your decision to create a mailing list. Your mailing list isn't just a collection of email addresses; it's a community of individuals who believe in what you do. The moment that first subscriber joins, a connection is established. This connection transcends the digital world, reminding you that real people are looking forward to hearing from you.

Landing that first subscriber might seem like a small win, but it's the spark that has the potential to ignite a wildfire of engagement. It's the starting point of a journey that could lead to hundreds, thousands, or even more subscribers who are genuinely excited to receive your emails can be a powerful motivation booster.

As your target audience begins to take shape, you’ll begin to understand who's interested in your content and what resonates with them; it's also a reminder of your journey's humble beginnings. Every great endeavor starts with a single step, and this first subscriber is that initial step towards building a thriving mailing list. Send a welcome email expressing your gratitude and setting the tone for your future interactions. This personal touch can leave a lasting impression. As you share your excitement with others, you might find that more people become interested in joining your mailing list. The positive energy you radiate can attract like-minded individuals.

Getting your first subscriber to your mailing list is a remarkable moment affirms your efforts. As you move forward, remember that every subscriber represents an individual who believes in your content and wants to be a part of your journey. Embrace the thrill, and let it fuel your passion to create, engage, and connect.

Giveaway! Free Makeup, Nail Care, and Perfume Artwork Just for You!

Greeting card featuring make-up graphics from the free giveaway collection.

Beauty enthusiasts, fashion aficionados, and creative souls…please gather around!

I’m thrilled to announce a spectacular giveaway that's bound to bring a touch of elegance and style to your world. Imagine adorning products with makeup, nail care, and perfume designs to gift to family and friends. To use on your website, blog and stationery; whether it's mugs, tote bags, t-shirts, bedding, apparel, greeting cards or gift wrap, these designs are ready to infuse your world with beauty and charm.

This giveaway boasts a treasure trove of gorgeous designs…from lipstick to nail polish, I’ve got you covered!

Picture this…your best friend is enjoying her morning coffee in a mug adorned with your lovingly created by you; your mum, whilst out shopping in the village, is carrying a personally design tote bag that echoes your creativity; your greeting cards and gift wrap become tokens of whimsy and thoughtfulness.

How to Get Your Free Download

Participating in this fabulous giveaway is as easy as a swish of mascara. Here's how:

1. Head to deborahwilsondesigns.com to access the pop up download form. If you’re already here, pop over to the homepage.

2. Fill out the form with your first name and email address.

3. This one is 100% optional, but I would be so grateful if you would share and spread the news of this giveaway on your social media, please tag me @deborahwilsondesigns. Thank you!

Terms and Conditions

Please refer to the Ts and Cs included in the download folder.

Enjoy! x

T-shirt featuring a perfume bottle from the free giveaway collection.

Mug featuring artwork composition for the free giveaway collection.

Vintage Greenhouse

Shirt features the pattern ‘Scatter’ from the Vintage Greenhouse collection.

“Scatter”

Seeds - Mixed.

Wrap top feature new pattern “Seeds”

“Scattered Seeds” - Pink.

Vintage Greenhouse.

Gingham - Pinks.

Seed Stripes

Frames

Seeds - Cotton

Seed Packets

Seeds - Pink

Riot

Scattered Seeds - Gold

Busy Bees

Bucolic Equine

Golden yellow and creamy stone colours feature in the Pastoral Scene and Foliage Trellis wallpapers above. See the whole collection here.

Introducing Bucolic Equine

An elegant pastoral themed collection featuring horses in a bucolic landscape surrounded by natural trees and foliage. Inspired by historical illustrations and natural foliage.

Wallpaper featuring the Foliage Trellis Pattern in Heron Grey.

Dress featuring For All Horse Lovers Everywhere Pattern, shown here in Gold on Stone.

Hallway featuring Foliage Stripe wallpaper design in Heron Blue.

Tea Towel featuring Foraged Foliage design in Gold.

New Patterns for Primitive Collection

Pinks, blues, browns and teal have been used to create this whimsical pattern called Primitive Animals. See the whole collection here.

Introducing New Patterns!

I’ve really enjoyed creating these new additions to my Primitive Imperial collection. Lots of whimsy and fun in the new patterns and the collection now has two colour ways. I really hope you like what I’ve been creating over the Winter months.

Baby Grow featuring Primitive Animals pattern.

Colour Inspiration for 2023/24

Pinks, reds, tan and teal from my Piccadilly Circus colour palette have been used to create this vibrant silk scarf using elements from my Quayside Collection here.

Hello everyone!

How have you been coping with the latest heatwave? I have been trying to keep cool by staying indoors surrounded by fans (the oscillating variety!) researching trending colours for Spring/Summer and Autumn/Winter 2023/24. I’ve looked everywhere from fashion and interiors to make-up trends for my inspiration and would like to share my findings with you, so read on to find out what’s hot and what’s not for the next few seasons.

Brown, green, taupe and tan are all making a comeback! The 1970s and 1980s are still influencing colours schemes with their contrasting subtleness and boldness (respectively). Bold patterns with tints of hot pinks, reds, vibrant electric blues and lime greens for Spring and Summer, and tans, taupes (I’m trying hard not to type beige!) and browns feature together with pops of purples and cerise to herald in Autumn and Winter collections.

I’ve created two variations of colour palettes, one for Spring/Summer and the other for Autumn/Winter, but these palettes are easily interchangeable between seasons by playing with the global settings in Illustrator’s Recolor feature. For example, try lowering the temperature of one of the more vibrant Spring/Summer palettes eg. Sicilian Avenue to create a more mellow version, perfect for autumnal collections.

Please click here to download a free AI file; for a PDF version, please click here. Please feel free to use my colour palettes in your own designs.

Enjoy!

Just a little note…my curated colour palettes are in no way definitive for the coming 2023/24 seasons; colour is subjective and my idea of what’s hot and not is based on my interpretation of what I have seen and read. Please enjoy using these colours in your designs and I hope you’ll be as pleasantly surprised by some of your outcomes as much as I was with mine.

View fullsize

Green Park Palette

View fullsize

Trafalgar Square Palette

View fullsize

Sicilian Avenue Palette

View fullsize

Mayfair Palette

View fullsize

Piccadilly Circus Palette

Chiffon kimono featuring sea life elements from my Quayside Collection, I used the Piccadilly Circus colour palette.

Party Time!

A vibrant tea time party collection, perfect for colourful party themes, whether printed on paper or textiles. Eye catching designs, inspired by traditional party paraphernalia, are perfect for afternoon tea and cake parties, birthdays…in fact, any type of celebration. Use for party paper goods, gift wrap, greeting cards, tablecloths, napkins, invitations, bunting, kitchen textiles.

Enjoy!

Queen’s Jubilee

Tea Party Pattern

With thoughts of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee high on many Councils’ and community minds this May, it brings to my mind my Tea Party pattern featuring classic tea caddies, pretty china tea cups, shortbread biscuits and the ubiquitous tea pot. Happy street party planning to all…

Immersion 2021

Regency Sennen Pattern

Before I begin, let me explain what Immersion is. Immersion is a surface pattern design course developed and presented by Bonnie Christine, with whom I embarked upon my surface pattern design journey (that word!) back in Bonnie’s CreativeLive days.

Immersion is a great course for beginners and established artists alike, but especially brilliant for its comprehensive, yet relevant, Adobe Illustrator training it provides. I thought I already knew enough about Illustrator, but it turns out that one, I didn’t and two, most of what I was doing, I was doing wrong! I created a beautiful contemporary pattern collection, Sennen Beach as a result of this course and it taught me so, so much. You can also find Bonnie at Skillshare Inc.

Primitive Antiques

Primitive Antiques Collection

Inspired by an antiquing weekend in New England, I was simply loved the heritage colour palette and Americana theme of decor. I thought of combining European Imperial and Regency style with Americana and liked the juxtaposition of the styles, thus creating the Primitive Antiques Collection.

My First Repeating Pattern

Martha’s Craftworks - My first repeating pattern.

I’m sharing my first repeating pattern, it’s called Martha’s Craftworks and was created for a whimsical craft themed website I was designing back in the day. I watched a surface pattern design course on CreativeLive several years ago featuring Bonnie Christine. I enjoyed the class immensely and since then I have been hooked on creating repeating patterns for all types of surfaces; from wallpaper to fabrics and paper goods to kitchen textiles.

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Mine was to create and I knew exactly what I wanted to do, but because I wasn’t confident about my ability to draw or paint, I told myself for years that I had to wait until technology would make it possible for me to create pattern collections. I remember making copious notes and rough sketches of what my future patterns would look like, frustrated that I couldn’t yet create in the real world. Of course I was just giving myself excuses, feeling fearful and living a life stuck in an imposter syndrome scenario. I will be forever grateful to Bonnie and her Roost Tribe for showing me how to progress further and begin creating my dream life.

Please share your first pattern story, we’d all love to hear it…