Mid-Career Switch: How to Become a Surface Pattern Designer

At DesignDash, we know that creative women in design are constantly seeking more than just a successful career—they’re looking for a life that feels balanced, meaningful, and inspired. That’s why we’re exploring mid-career pivots in this series: to shine a light on the ways designers can expand their creativity while finding the rhythm that best supports their professional and personal needs. A mid-career switch isn’t about starting over. We think it’s more about taking what you know, and love, and finding new ways to bring joy and fulfillment into your work and life. Whether that’s about carving out more family time, reigniting your creative spark, or simply pursuing something that makes you feel whole, the journey of discovering a new path—like surface pattern design—is one of growth and endless possibilities.

A New Chapter in Your Creative Journey

At some point in your creative career, you may have found yourself asking, “What’s next?” Perhaps you’ve felt a tug to explore something different—a desire to reconnect with the joy and balance that brought you to design in the first place.

Surface pattern design could be that next step—a way to branch out without losing touch with your roots in architecture, interior design, or any other creative field. This isn’t about starting over; it’s about expanding your canvas, bringing fresh life to your skills, and evolving into new forms of creativity that fit your lifestyle and passions.

But What Exactly Is Surface Pattern Design?

Surface pattern design is the art of creating patterns for surfaces—textiles, wallpapers, stationery, home goods, and even architectural materials. It’s the floral wallpaper that turns a plain wall into a statement piece or the abstract fabric that adds a touch of whimsy to a chair.

For those with a design background, this field is a natural extension, as you’re already skilled in thinking spatially, working with color and texture, and bringing visual harmony to a space. Imagine applying your skills in new ways—making your mark on fabrics, ceramics, or even product packaging that brings beauty to everyday life.

Why Consider a Career Switch to Surface Pattern Design?

For many creative professionals, surface pattern design offers a chance to explore creative freedom. You can develop designs that reflect current trends, speak to diverse audiences, or align with personal passions—all while experimenting with materials and styles.

The flexibility of the field also means more control over your time, allowing you to create on your own schedule, which can lead to a more balanced work-life rhythm. Empowering yourself to try something new, take risks, and grow your creativity on your own terms can bring a renewed sense of inspiration and fulfillment.

Getting Started: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Build Awareness & Curiosity

Start by immersing yourself in the world of surface patterns. Notice the designs on everyday objects, from tiles to tote bags, and draw inspiration from nature, fashion, and other cultures. Follow surface pattern designers on social media and seek out blogs, books, or online communities that share patterns you find intriguing.

Step 2: Expand Your Skill Set and Explore the Technical Side of Surface Design

Familiarize yourself with software used in surface pattern design, like Adobe Illustrator or Procreate. There are many beginner-friendly courses on platforms like Skillshare and Udemy that teach these tools in bite-sized lessons—perfect for fitting into a busy schedule.

Step 3: Start Creating & Experimenting

Dive into different mediums and let yourself play with art supplies. Start by sketching designs on paper or use digital tools to bring your ideas to life. Set aside time regularly to create without pressure—let it be a playful process to explore your style.

Step 4: Build Your Portfolio

As you create, start curating your best work. Showcase a range of patterns, color palettes, and applications that represent your style. Consider using platforms like Behance, Instagram, or your own website to display your portfolio.

Step 5: Find Your Market & Monetize

Explore ways to monetize your designs, from licensing patterns to freelancing for companies or selling your prints on platforms like Etsy or Society6. Find where your style fits in the market and take actionable steps to promote your work to clients and retailers. Don’t forget to research your target market!

Balancing the Transition: Practical Tips for Busy Creatives

Finding time to transition into surface pattern design can be challenging, but it’s doable. Start by setting aside small chunks of time—maybe during your morning coffee or while the kids are at school—to learn and create.

Embrace the learning curve, knowing that growth often comes through experimentation and imperfections. And don’t be afraid to involve your family in your creative process. Let your kids help brainstorm patterns or share your latest designs with them; it’s a great way to blend work and family.

Overcoming Fears & Self-Doubt

It’s normal to feel like a beginner when starting something new. Acknowledge those feelings of imposter syndrome and remind yourself that even seasoned designers start somewhere. To build confidence, practice regularly, seek support from fellow creatives, and celebrate small wins.

Many women have successfully transitioned into surface pattern design—often sharing stories of stumbling before finding their stride. Let those stories be a reminder that the journey is just as important as the destination.

The Philosophical Perspective: Finding Joy in Creative Evolution

Choosing to switch to surface pattern design is about evolving creatively, not just changing careers. It’s an opportunity to redefine what success means to you—not just in terms of commercial gain but in creativity, balance, and joy. Approach your design practice with mindfulness—be present in the process, savor the act of creation, and embrace every stage of your growth.

Surface Pattern Designers We Love to Get You Inspired

William Morris

A highly influential figure in the Arts and Crafts Movement, Morris designed intricate, nature-inspired textiles, floor coverings, and wallpapers that continue to influence surface pattern design today. His work emphasizes handcrafted quality, detailed florals, and harmonious repetition.

Orla Kiely

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A post shared by Orla Kiely (@orlakiely)

Known for her modern, retro-inspired patterns, Orla Kiely’s designs are characterized by bold, simple motifs often inspired by mid-century art and aesthetics. Her patterns have been featured in a variety of products, from clothing to home decor, and are recognizable by their bright colors and playful repetition.

Marimekko (Armi Ratia)

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A post shared by Marimekko (@marimekko)

Armi Ratia co-founded Marimekko, a Finnish design house known for its iconic patterns, like the “Unikko” (poppy) design created by Maija Isola. Marimekko’s designs are characterized by their bold colors, abstract shapes, and organic forms, making them instantly recognizable in fashion, home textiles, and accessories.

Florence Broadhurst

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A post shared by Florence Broadhurst (@florencebroadhurst)

Florence Broadhurst was an Australian designer known for her luxurious, often large-scale wallpaper patterns that combined bold colors and intricate designs. Her work became highly popular in the mid-20th century and remains influential in luxury interior design today.

Josef Frank

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A post shared by Thommy Bindefeld (@thommy_bindefeld)

Josef Frank, an Austrian-born surface designer who worked extensively in Sweden, created exuberant artwork and nature-inspired illustrations for textiles. His colorful and playful designs, often depicting flora and fauna, have left a lasting legacy in Scandinavian design and are still produced by the Swedish brand Svenskt Tenn.

Lotta Jansdotter

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A post shared by Lotta Jansdotter (@lottajansdotter)

Lotta Jansdotter is a modern designer known for her minimalist, nature-inspired patterns that reflect Scandinavian design principles. Her work includes textiles, ceramics, and stationery and is characterized by clean lines, hand-drawn motifs, and a balanced aesthetic.

Heather Ross

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A post shared by heather ross (@heatherrossinsta)

Heather Ross is a contemporary designer whose whimsical, hand-illustrated patterns are often featured in fabric, children’s books, and lifestyle products. Her work has a playful, nostalgic feel, often drawing on themes from nature and childhood.

Final Thoughts: Take the Leap – You Deserve a New Adventure!

Take that first step—whether it’s sketching a simple doodle, diving into a design course, or playing with colors and textures in your spare time. The path to becoming a surface pattern designer is one of joyful exploration and connection, offering a way to blend your creativity with your career and life. Remember, your patterns are waiting to be brought to life.

Not sure if surface pattern design is right for you? You might still need to make a change (industrial design, for example)! Check out these other Mid-Career Switch articles for inspiration:

• Mid-Career Switch: How to Become an Industrial Designer
• Mid-Career Switch: How to Become an Event Planner With No Experience
• Mid-Career Switch: How to Become a Book Scout
• Mid-Career Switch: How to Become a Graphic Designer
• Mid-Career Switch: How to Become a Medical Illustrator
• Mid-Career Switch: How to Become a Color Consultant
• Mid-Career Switch: How to Become a Brand Strategist

Is it time to make a mid-career switch? Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the Fall ’24 issue of The DesignDash Magazine and our Mid-Career Switch Quiz.