In this class, I will show you how to create a pattern swatch using the Pattern Tool in Adobe Illustrator.

We will learn how to import elements from Adobe Libraries.
We will explore how to turn basic shapes into cute citrus motifs for our patterns.
We will review all of the pattern tool options in detail.
We will discuss the nuances of hex and brick patterns.
You will learn how to plan your swatch size and convert your tile size to a swatch size when using different pattern offsets.
You will learn how to add a background color to your pattern swatch.
We will discuss how to convert pixels to inches when exporting your work.

Why complete the class project?

Creating patterns is fun! But more importantly, practicing the skills you learn in class will solidify your knowledge and improve your proficiency. The best way to learn is by doing. I encourage you to pause between lessons and do the exercises yourself to make sure you understand them and get a feel for the process before moving on. The Pattern Tool offers many options and offsets, expanding the possibilities for pattern layouts. Have fun exploring and experimenting. By the end of the class, you will be able to confidently and quickly create a pattern with the Pattern Tool.

There are no perfect projects, so enjoy the process! And please upload your finished pattern to the Project Gallery because I would love to see what you create!

Class Resources:

In the Projects & Resources section, you will find a set of citrus-inspired color palettes you can use in class and a list of keyboard shortcuts in Adobe Illustrator. I have also included reference guides for calculating your swatch size relative to the tile size when using the pattern tool, and for converting pixels to inches when planning your patterns and exporting your work. You can download these and save them to your files. All the other tools you need are available

In this class, you will learn how to create a pattern swatch using the Pattern Tool in Adobe Illustrator.

We will go over how to:

Import elements from Adobe Libraries.
Convert basic shapes to citrus motifs.
Use all the Pattern Tool options.
Use the Brick and Hex pattern offsets.
Calculate swatch sizes from tile sizes.
Add a background to your pattern swatch.
Convert pixels to inches when exporting your pattern.

In the end, you will have created brick and hex pattern swatches using the Pattern Tool in Adobe Illustrator.

It will be helpful to have some pattern design experience and to know the basics of Adobe Illustrator before you get started.

If you are new to pattern design, I teach the foundational skills for creating patterns in my class, Geometric Patterns: Simple to Sophisticated Repeats in Adobe Illustrator.

Why is this class helpful?

There are many ways to approach pattern design, and several tools in Adobe Illustrator for creating patterns. The Pattern Tool is a great way to explore layouts you might otherwise overlook. The Brick Pattern offsets offer new variations on the typical half-drop layouts, and the Hex Pattern options add nuance to pattern layouts. The tool also lets you view your adjustments in real time, streamlining the design editing process. It offers a quick, simple, and efficient way to lay out patterns and create swatches. It's a great tool to have in your pattern-making toolkit.

Materials and Resources

This class requires a computer and Adobe Illustrator.

With an Adobe CC account, you will have access to Adobe Illustrator and many other Adobe apps with one subscription. Adobe also offers free trials of its apps, so you can start with the free trial if you don't want to commit to paying for the app immediately, but it won't offer all of the premium features.

In the Project and Resources tab, you will find a set of citrus-inspired color palettes you can use in class and a list of keyboard shortcuts in Adobe Illustrator. I have also included reference guides for calculating your swatch size relative to the tile size when using the pattern tool, and for converting pixels to inches when planning your patterns and exporting your work. You can download these and save them to your files.

A little about me:

I have a Bachelor's of Fine Arts and over three decades of experience as an artist.
I started using Adobe Illustrator to create patterns in 2014 and have created hundreds of them, so I'm well-versed in the tools and techniques needed for this class.
I learned with pencil and paper, but have transitioned to working digitally to create my art, so I know firsthand how intimidating the switch from traditional to digital media can be at first. I also know the benefits of working digitally, including saving time and resources and increasing productivity.

Adobe and Adobe Illustrator are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Adobe in the United States and/or other countries.

in Adobe Illustrator.

Tips on uploading your project:

Export to a JPG or PNG
Go to the Projects and Resources section of this class and tap the “Submit Project” button on the right-hand side.
You can add a Title and Description, upload your images, and click “Publish”.
You can update your project at any time, so feel free to upload your work at any stage of the process and then update it when your project is complete.

Adobe and Adobe Illustrator are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Adobe in the United States and/or other countries.

Amy Bradley

Surface Pattern Designer & Artist

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