This is an introduction to making patterns in Illustrator. There are many reasons why making patterns is an important to skill to have. For example a pattern might help catch the viewer's eye on a book cover or we might choose a gift wrap based on a pattern.
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| http://www.patternpeople.com/from-cover-to-cover/ |
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Geometric patterns as great as well. Please follow the link to see other example http://mymodernmet.com/sebastian-erras-paris-floors-update/
For this project you will create a patterned background. Below you will find directions to create a pattern to go behind your work.
For this project you will create a patterned background. Below you will find directions to create a pattern to go behind your work.
Please have your Pattern Checklist, Client Worksheet and Pattern Rubric out. Scroll down to download these documents. Click on the document name to DOWNLOAD: Pattern Checklist, Client Worksheet and Pattern Rubric.
Before you begin you will need to think of a client that you will be making this work for. As with any Graphic Design project, you will need to solve the design problem of how to create work that will appeal to others. Remember my rule about clients. Your client can be you but you will need to be able to articulate who you are in general. Fill the Client Worksheet out before you do your design. You may change it at the end if you need to.
As you follow the directions below you will need to have the Pattern Checklist out. Please check off as you design your work.
1st- You will need to open a new file either 2 inches by 2 inches or 1 inch by 1 inch.
2nd- You will create a pattern within the new file. A pattern is a repetition of design. A simple star can be a pattern but be creative and challenge your self to create a pattern that is complex. Checkerboard designs and targets can be unique. Use all the skills you have worked on so far like gradients and the pen tool. Remember you work needs to have a theme or represent a holiday. Your work has a client! Save this file as Pattern1.ai.
3rd- Next you will need to select All (command A) and copy (command C) your Pattern1.ai and paste it into a new 8 inch x 10 inch file. Save this file as Firstname_pattern.ai.
4th- Once the Pattern1.ai is pasted into Firstname_pattern.ai select the pattern with the selection tool and drag into the swatches pallete or select your ALL of your pattern (command + A) and go to Object- Pattern- Make. The new pattern will show up in your swatches if done correctly. Go to the window and select swatches if you are unable to see the swatch panel. You will know if it is successful when you see you pattern in the swatches panel. Click done if you used the Pattern- Make method or just continue.
7th- Select a new layer in Firstname_pattern.ai. Select the new added pattern in your swatches as your fill. Using the rectangular tool select the whole 8 x 10 canvas and it will fill the background with the pattern.
5th- Delete the original pattern. Now you will need to fill your rectangle with the new pattern. With the rectangular tool you will need create a new rectangle on top 8 x 10 and fill with your new patter and keep the stroke clear.
*If you do not have any color behind your image you will need to create a new layer (paper icon next to the trash in the Layer window). Rearrange the layers until you have you final picture looking well. To move a Layer select it by clicking on it. Than holding done the mouse click drag your layer up or down.
Your new pattern in your swatches will only exist in that file. You have your pattern file saved separately so that you can quickly add it to any file. I have a library of patterns in a folder.
Before you drop your work in the Drop Box (http://skylinehsgraphicdesign1.blogspot.com/p/dink-box-drop-box.html) make sure that have done the three worksheets and your pattern is approved. Place your Pattern Checklist, Client Worksheet and Pattern Rubric in the clear bin.
You may do more than one pattern and illustration. If you change your client base, your design is sure to change. For instance
Student samples.
Botello, Chris and Eisner Reding, Elizabeth. (2008) The Design Collection Revealed: Adobe Indesign CS3, Photoshop CS3 and Illustrator CS3. Course Technology, Cengage Learning. Boston, Massachusetts.
Lane, Amanda. (2012) Tutorial: How to Create an Ikat Effect in Illustrator. Retrieved 3/30/15 from http://bohemiangypsyjane.blogspot.com/2012/11/tutorial-how-to-create-ikat-effect-in.html
Porta, Mary. (2010) How to Define Your Target Market. Retrieved 3/30/15 from http://www.inc.com/guides/2010/06/defining-your-target-market.html
Additional Resources:
Pattern Fill
Define a Pattern
Pattern Options (use your own patterns)
