Patterns are a fun way to make a small space pop. They can range from something traditional to Avant Gard. I like to create patterns because they are therapeutic and they make me happy. Sometimes, it’s easy for me to just sit and look at them and think about how some things appear to continue on forever.
For pattern creation, usually, I hand draw a small element that looks great on its own. Once I’m satisfied with how it looks, I scan it into my computer. Using photoshop, I digitize the image so that it can be manipulated like a template. Part of my process is to play around with the image until seeing it arranged over and over both makes sense and looks pleasing.