Are you passionate about surface pattern design and looking for the right courses to enhance your skills? Whether you are a beginner or an experienced designer, surface pattern design courses can help you refine your craft, learn industry techniques, and build a portfolio that attracts clients.
This guide explores the best courses, what to consider when choosing a course, and how to turn your skills into a thriving career.
Why take a surface pattern design course?
Enrolling in a structured course can provide the technical skills, industry knowledge, and business strategies needed to succeed as a surface pattern designer. Whether you want to license your designs, start a business, or improve your creative skills, the right course can help you achieve your goals.
Learn Industry-Standard Techniques
A structured course provides a solid foundation in color theory, composition, and repeat patterns. It also offers hands-on experience with industry-standard tools such as Adobe Illustrator and Procreate.
Build a professional portfolio
Many courses include project-based learning, enabling students to develop a market-ready portfolio. This is essential for selling patterns or securing licensing deals.
Gain insights from experts
Enrolling in a well-structured course provides access to industry professionals who share insights on trends, licensing, marketing, and client engagement.
Top Surface Pattern Design Courses to Consider
A variety of online courses cater to different learning styles, career goals, and budgets. Below are some of the best options for beginners and professionals alike.
Make It In Design – The Print School
About the Course
Make It In Design offers a structured learning pathway for aspiring surface pattern designers. The curriculum covers fundamental design principles, advanced techniques, and professional development strategies.
Course Highlights
- Creating professional repeat patterns
- Using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop
- Developing a portfolio for commercial opportunities
- Understanding licensing and client pitching
Pricing
This is a paid course, with prices starting from £149 per module. Bundle options are available for full certification.
Best for
Beginners and intermediate designers seeking a step-by-step structured program.
Website: Make It In Design – The Print School
Skillshare – Surface Pattern Design Masterclasses
About the Course
Skillshare offers a selection of short, on-demand courses taught by industry professionals. These classes are ideal for those who prefer flexible, self-paced learning.
Course Highlights
- Digital pattern creation using Adobe Illustrator and Procreate
- Introduction to surface pattern design trends
- Portfolio-building techniques for beginners
Pricing
- Free with a one-month trial
- Subscription-based model ($14 per month after the trial period)
Best for
Designers looking for affordable, on-demand learning.
Website: Skillshare Surface Pattern Design Courses
Bonnie Christine’s Immersion Course
About the Course
Bonnie Christine, a successful surface pattern designer, offers a highly detailed, career-focused course. This program provides comprehensive training for those serious about pursuing a full-time career in the industry.
Course Highlights
- Seamless pattern creation using Adobe Illustrator
- Licensing, manufacturing, and selling designs
- Branding and marketing for surface pattern designers
- Strategies for launching a successful creative business
Pricing
- Premium course, priced at $1,297 (one-time payment or installment plan)
- Enrollment opens once a year
Best for
Serious designers seeking comprehensive career-focused training.
Website: Bonnie Christine’s Immersion Course
Domestika – Surface Pattern Design for Beginners
About the Course
Domestika offers high-quality, pre-recorded video lessons by professional designers. Unlike Skillshare, it operates on a one-time purchase model, making it a cost-effective option for learners.
Course Highlights
- Fundamentals of surface pattern design
- Digital tools, including Adobe Illustrator and Procreate
- Creating seamless repeating patterns
Pricing
- One-time payment, typically ranging from $10 to $40 per course
- Frequent discounts available
Best for
Beginners looking for affordable, high-quality pre-recorded lessons.
Website: Domestika Surface Pattern Design Courses
Patternfield Academy (Coming Soon)
About the Course
Patternfield is developing an exclusive surface pattern design course that combines technical training, business strategies, and portfolio-building exercises.
Course Highlights
- Creating high-quality, print-ready patterns
- Licensing and selling designs to clients
- Branding and marketing strategies
- Real-world case studies and hands-on projects
Pricing
To be announced, with exclusive early-bird discounts available for Patternfield members.
Best for
Designers who want a balanced mix of technical and business training.
Website: Patternfield Courses
How to Choose the Right Surface Pattern Design Course
Define Your Goals
Consider whether you want to pursue surface pattern design as a hobby or a full-time career. Some courses focus purely on creative techniques, while others offer business and licensing strategies.
Review Course Content
Look for courses that include:
- Design tools (Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, Procreate)
- Pattern repeat techniques and color theory
- Portfolio development and client engagement
- Licensing, contracts, and selling artwork
Check Reviews and Testimonials
Before enrolling, review feedback from past students to determine whether the course provides practical knowledge and industry-relevant training.
Conclusion
The field of surface pattern design offers immense opportunities for creatives looking to turn their artistic passion into a career. Whether you are just starting out or seeking advanced training, investing in a high-quality course can provide the skills, industry knowledge, and confidence needed to succeed.
Choosing the right course depends on your goals—whether you want an affordable introduction, structured professional training, or a business-focused approach. Courses such as Make It In Design, Bonnie Christine’s Immersion Course, and Skillshare provide valuable insights into both technical skills and the business aspects of pattern design.
As Patternfield Academy prepares to launch, we aim to offer a comprehensive learning experience that equips designers with both creative and business expertise.
If you are serious about developing your career in surface pattern design, now is the perfect time to start.
