Capsules Pattern Design
Introducing Capsules
Capsules pattern design started as an illustration rather than a pattern. I kept going back to the design, wondering how I could create a pattern repeat that was hard to spot.
Pattern Repeat Experiments
Starting with 14 capsules in various colours, I experimented flipping and rotating the design. The problem I found was that reflected and rotated designs were practically impossible to navigate. Giving me no idea where I needed to alter to make the design work.
Numbering The Capsules
Creating a simple numbering system seemed to be the only way to see what was going on. Adding an underline to the numbers I could tell which were which. Using distinct colours also made the design process easier, although still very time-consuming to make the pattern work.
Overlapping The Capsules
I found overlapping some of the capsules also made the pattern my dynamic too
Final Design
Using a group of 12 of the 14 original capsules; they are duplicated, then reflected on the Y axis this is repeated four times. The complete row is then duplicated and reflected on the X axis another four times. Creating the complete design.
Colouring The Design
Narrowing down the number of colours used simplified the design and making it more graphic. I experimented using different coloured backgrounds too, but found a limited colour palette more appealing.
Testing The Pattern Repeat
The full-screen versions use actual pattern repeats, set to repeat using my CSS style sheet. Meaning I didn’t need large images taking up extra time to download. The scale of the capsules can be altered too, again using the CSS style sheet.
Rotating The Design
I felt the horizontal version was too static, so rotated the whole design by 45°. This meant the pattern repeat had to be altered, but I think it was worth it to make it more fun.
Naming The Pattern
Early designs had other shaped tablets as well as the capsules so I named it Drugs. For this version I used the more innocent name of Capsules instead.
The Future
Continuing work on the design I have a new version where the capsules are much tighter together and none of them overlap. Although not as dynamic perhaps, it does achieve a more all-over pattern design.
Buying My Designs
Products featuring my pattern designs are available to buy from my shops hosted by Spoonflower and Contrado. As well as fabrics by the metre, they can produce my designs in a range of home decor items including; tablecloths, bedding, cushions, wallpaper, cushions and wrapping paper / gift wrap.