Photo by Sara Nielsen

For my final pattern design project, I was inspired to create two very different patterns that varied in color, shape, and mood. More specifically, I was inspired by everyday objects that I own and how they are incorporated in nature. My first design was influenced by a Himalayan salt rock lamp that I own. This rock lamp projects a warm and saturated hue that gave me the feeling of warmth and light. This reminder inspired me to make my first pattern since the shape of a sun stands out to me, and I also admire what the sun stands for through symbolism.

Photo by Sara Nielsen

My second pattern drew inspiration from a vanity that I utilize on a regular basis. This LED mirror that I recently purchased is rounded in shape, with multiple “rings” existing between the circular mirror, light, and frame of the mirror. Unlike my first design, I wanted this pattern to be cooler in color and more abstract in shape. Also, by expanding on the circular motif, I created an egg symbol that grows smaller and smaller inside the shape itself while incorporating more hues than in my first design.

Created by Sara Nielsen with Adobe Illustrator

Created by Sara Nielsen with Adobe Illustrator

Creating these designs through Adobe Illustrator proved to be challenging since I have little experience with the application. For instance, there was some minor overlap with my first “sun” design given I kept the black outline in tact. Coloring within the shape also proved to be difficult since the paint bucket tool was unresponsive with some lines. My second design was much easier to generate. Since I wanted the second version to be more abstract I left one panel in the lower left with only 2 instead of all 4 shapes. The pattern design tool was helpful in producing both of my finishing products. The line, ellipses, and paint bucket tools were among my most used while working with Illustrator.

I can visualize my first pattern being used for a fabric since it is the more attention-grabbing design of the two I created. My second pattern, which is less graphic, has potential to be used for a rug or some form of 60s inspired project.