Creating a fabric design can be as simple or complex as you’d like. There are a number of tools that you can use for textile design, some require no training at all, others are a bit more complicated. Take a look at five of our favorite ways to create inspired fabric designs!
1. Watercolor.
Break out your watercolors and paint a simple motif.
2. Find a public domain image.
Use public domain images to create a retro textile design.
3. Put your computer to work.
Your computer is an incredible design tool allowing you to make simple designs using straight lines or more complex images with extreme details.
4. Doodle.
Pens and markers are great tools for illustrating a simple or intricate pattern.
5. Use those old photographs.
Old family photographs or your favorite shots from a recent vacation can be arranged in a collage for a personalized fabric!
Finished? You’re ready to upload your design for printing!
Once you have your design, you’re ready to upload it. If you’re unsure of how to do that, we have some handy instructions to help you out.
The keyword in textiles is “tiles.” Whether you are designing symmetrical or asymmetrical stripes or plaids or motifs the pattern repeats in what are called tiles. In working with the actual textiles to create something the size of the “repeat” can be critical. In drapery and upholstery fabric you will see terms like ’14” repeat,’ meaning the pattern or center of the motif repeats every 14.” This is critical in the calculation of yardage needed and cutting of fabric so that the stripes or plaids match or the motif is centered properly. I would think that any program you are using on a Bamboo would have the “tile” option in it. I know I made tiles with my old Jasc Paint Shop Pro (before Corel bought it) and a Wacom Graphire. I can still use the program with Windows 8, although I have not set up the Graphire.
I would love to also know some favorite programs to use for making these designs – do you have any suggestions or a tutorial? I’d love to use my Bamboo tablet to design something, but I have no idea how to translate it into an overall fabric design 🙂 Thanks!