How do I do my design work for fabric?
It starts with a photograph
On my travels in the regions of Western Australia, I photograph any native flora that I pass on the way.
Photos are then traced on the page in Adobe Illustrator on a Wacom tablet. At this stage the flowers become vectors which are roughly illustrated into motifs.
Using the wacom pen I trace the flowers from all different angles to get a good variety of shapes from which to make a repeat pattern.
A moodboard is created
The moodboard defines a colour pallette for a collection of 20 designs. The collection usually comprises 2 Hero patterns, 4 Coordinating patterns and 4 Blender patterns.
The motifs are refined and repeat patterns are created with Adobe Illustrator tools, in a scale to suit the end product. For quilting fabrics, the scale is small-medium, while for fashion fabrics I will create larger scale patterns.
Mockups and Samples
I may create a digital mockup on fabric and then have samples digitally printed on the desired fabric.
Once the best samples are returned I place an order for printing and packing. For quilting fabric, this includes double-rolled bolts x 10 metres, pre-cut Jelly Rolls, 5" square Charm packs and 10" Square Layer Cakes. For fashion fabrics I order by the roll.
Love your process
Being passionate about your subjects and art practise is critical to creating good quality work. I love the process of digital translation from nature to illustration and have a particular eye for bright colours and repeat patterns. When a hero pattern comes together it is like the euphoria of 'being in the zone'.
Shop fabrics online: 100% Ecotex Cotton designed and packaged for quilters
From the designer direct to your stash. Order now and support a small Australian business.
Fabric by the metre in 0.25m - 10m, Jelly Rolls, 5" Charm packs and 10" Layer Cakes
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