The Pattern
How I Create Patterns
Since my brain is full of stuff I cannot just start looming a new item without a pattern. Well, I guess I could, but it might not be a cohesive, recognizable thing. I do make patterns and I actually use several different methods to make a pattern before I loom.
The Idea
The first step is to have the idea. I was asked where I get my patterns from and the answer is from pictures I have taken, from seeing something on the internet, and from the depths of my brain. On the internet thing, I might see a thing, say a deer and it gives me an idea and create what comes from it. Or I use copyright free, free-to-use pictures like those found on Pixabay. A quick Note: Royalty Free only means you do not have to pay a fee to use, but it is still a copyrighted item and needs permission. Never use someone’s picture or image without permission.
The next step is to make the actual pattern.
I have several methods I use:
- I buy grid paper from the office supply store. Depending on the size I am making I will buy 5 squares per inch all the way up to 15. I then either draw on the grid paper or I print on it. You can also downplay free grid papers. Waterproofpaper. com is a decent website
- If I am creating straight from my head I love to use my Ogees Seed bead Design Board. I recently got this product and I love it. It has four different “grids” to create on depending on the stitch used. Since I use a loom, that is the one I use. There is a place for brick, peyote, and ladder etc and both small and larger beads.
- Sometimes I make use a website, such as Stitchboard.com’s free Pattern Wizard. that creates patterns. You have the ability to upload images and it will create the pattern as well as the bead colors. Rarely do I use their color suggestions , but it is handy if you are just starting out. I really like that I can add my copyright to the pattern, important to me, especially if it is an image I drew or photographed.
- I have used other programs to create patterns. These are pay to use programs. One of the better ones is BeadTool. You can download and try first. I think it is OK and it does allow some freedom in the design process.
Images of the different methods.
Pattern using StitchBoard.com Free Pattern Wizard
