I get asked a lot how was the Surface Pattern Design e-course which I have studied recently. So I have dedicated this post writing about my personal experience.
Here's a brief idea for you getting to know my background ..just so you get the feel if too the e-course suits you, or maybe not? I was a full time graphic designer with more than 10 years professional experience. My background has always been a mixture across graphic design, packaging design, illustration and advertising. As for illustration, I've learn to draw and create at a very young age. My illustration style and skills has seen developed especially when I was studying commercial design & advertising at The One Academy, Malaysia (that's where I came from). From there, I've learn fast visual illustration & strong storyboard illustration (come in handy in advertising agencies).
I feel comfortable with media like water colouring as well as marker rendering. Love seeing people smile when they receive/looking at my art. That will ultimately my permanent goal. It is very important to me. Being able to do so means the world to me.
After being asked to design numerous kids' camping gear for some big retail chain. I thought "hey, this is fun but I want to create and know more but where and how?" My first proper experience with repeat pattern was when I took a short course - Textile Design at CAE. I love it and wanting to do more. Since then, I'm always looking for similar course to do. Unfortunately there's not many courses where you get to study repeat pattern design (which I then learned people from the other side of the world called her - Surface Pattern Design). That's how I found Rachael Taylor's course.
Personally think one has to be super organise to be able to absorb the e-course as the content was so detail and informative. There's always lots of details throughout the course. The only down side for me which is a big deal since I'm a working at home mum (I only had a toddler to deal with back then) the information was so full on, there's always assignment after a lecture on daily basis. I personally would prefer the course to run a bit slower and lesser assignments. Probably just so I don't have to feel I have to catch up with the lecture thinking "what if I missed out....". I have to say I was always on the rush. So a well time management person will suits.
I have to admit that I was one of the bad student who did not do every single assignments. I can only imagine one will learn a lot more and quick if you are super organise and well time management. I did not study Module 1 simply cuz I have some basic studies about repeat design. My honest point of view is that Module 3 suits me more versus Module 2. Module 3 has lots of information and strong resources tips which are very handy for me. In short, Module 1 would be ideal to those who are newbie and wants to have a feel on what surface pattern design is like. Module 3 would definitely suits those who have some years (or basic really) of experience in terms of textile, surface pattern design. In my honest opinion, it would definitely help you to get a hang of this module if you also have your own business. Think about having trade show, how you prepare and etc.
Alternatively, there's another site which also has similar course teaching Surface Pattern Design which might interests you? Have a look at Pikaland's site for more detail. Print & Pattern is by far the good resource for any surface pattern design from all over the world. Last but not least, Pinterest is another great resource where everyone is pinning (more like pinching? ;) lovely find.
These are just my personal opinion and experience. Sorry I couldn't share with you any of the course study notes as it would against the course's criteria. Do send Rachael an email or 2 if you have any question. I believe she would be more than happy to help you. If you are still indecisive to go ahead or not. The only comment from me to you for now is that you have nothing to loose. The greatest thing in life is to keep learning and stays young! :)
Will sum up this post with this fabulous magazine which I found last night.
original resource from here
If you found yourself scroll to this end of the post ..well, all the best on finding your path as I have found mine! :) Irene xx
