The Blog

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to step into the world of fabric and textile design, you’ll love this heartfelt conversation with Immersion alum Ann Gardner. Through the Immersion course, Ann transitioned from graphic design to surface pattern design, and by showing up with curiosity and consistency, she uncovered her unique creative style.

In this interview, Ann reflects on what she learned, the suppo...

Introducing Pattern+: Monthly Momentum for Your Creative Career 

Today is such a special day, one I’ve been dreaming about, planning, and pouring my heart into for months! But before I tell you what we’ve created, I want to share the why behind it. 

If you’ve ever tried turning your artwork into a flourishing business, you know: it’s easy to get stuck or feel like you're falling “behind”. I know the feeling all too...

If you’re wanting to learn how to become a surface pattern designer, I created four free resources to help you build confidence and grow your skills. My hope is that they’ll inspire you, encourage you, and give your creativity a gentle push forward.

1. Start Simple in Pattern Design Mini Course

What it is: 

Have you ever dreamed of seeing your own designs come to life on fabric, wallpaper, or gift wrap, but didn...

 Today is such a special day! It’s graduation day for the Immersion Class of 2025, and my heart is absolutely overflowing.

Each March, as new students step into the Surface Design Immersion Course, I sit down with a stack of wildflower seed paper and write every single name by hand. These names are pinned to the board behind my desk, a quiet but powerful reminder of the journey we take together. Through every module...

Discover how to launch a successful career in textile design, build income streams, and grow your creative business in fabric and surface pattern design.

Textile design is everywhere, from the clothes we wear to the wallpaper in our homes, the journals we write in, and the fabric on our furniture.

Imagine being the person who gets to design what those patterns look like, bringing beauty to products people use ev...

Discover how small, daily commitments and 10 seconds of courage helped me go from dreamer to successful fabric designer and creative entrepreneur.

From Dreamer to Fabric Designer: My Journey to a Creative Life

In 2009, I found myself standing exactly where you might be today — with a big, beautiful dream that felt both inspiring and unattainable. My heart yearned to become a fabric designer, yet I had no formal bac...

Join the Surface Design Immersion Course! Learn surface pattern design, Adobe Illustrator, and creative entrepreneurship. Watch the Q&A replay to learn more.

The wait is over, my friends! I’m beyond excited to share that open enrollment for the 2025 Surface Design Immersion Course is officially here! If you’ve been dreaming of learning surface pattern design, mastering Adobe Illustrator, and building a creative b...

Discover the must-have tools and techniques to confidently start your surface pattern design journey—perfect for beginners and aspiring designers.

When I first started designing, I remember feeling overwhelmed by all the resource options. Which tools do I really need? What’s worth investing in?

Here’s the good news: You don’t need a fancy studio or endless supplies to begin. The best tools are the ones that make...

Discover how to begin your creative journey in fabric design with five actionable steps, expert tips, and inspiration to turn your artistic passion into a thriving career.

I was in my mom's fabric store, surrounded by colorful bolts of fabric patterns, when I first discovered I wanted to begin a career in fabric design. 

I recall holding a roll of fabric in my hands, and it hit me—someone had designed this for t...

Discover Natalie Papier’s art-first design approach and her inspiring coffee table book, "Start with the Art," transforming homes into personal, artful sanctuaries.

Natalie Papier, an acclaimed interior designer, art curator, and television personality, has built a career around the principle that every meaningful design journey begins with art. Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, Natalie is known for creating space...

Discover what it means to be a creative entrepreneur and learn how to transform your artistic passion into a thriving, profitable business with innovation and purpose.

The term "creative entrepreneur" is becoming more popular these days, but what exactly does it mean? Simply put, a creative entrepreneur is someone who uses their artistic talent and creativity to build a sustainable and profitable business. Unlike tr...

Discover how to develop your unique artistic voice and build a brand that’s instantly recognizable with these 5 actionable steps for finding your signature style.

What is your signature style?

Can you imagine your artwork being instantly recognizable, even without your name on it? That’s the magic of a signature style. Whether you’re a surface pattern designer, painter, or creative entrepreneur, discovering your un...

Discover how 15 minutes of intentional focus can transform your creativity, boost productivity, and help you achieve your goals—even on the busiest days.

You might be thinking–can 15 minutes truly be that powerful? The answer is HECK YES, my friends! 

Often, we talk ourselves out of doing something productive by saying we don't even have 15 minutes to spare. Well, I’m here to challenge that notion and inspire you t...

Learn essential tips to create captivating surface pattern designs that attract art directors, showcase your unique style, and elevate your design portfolio.

Embracing the journey of education and experimentation has been essential in my success as a surface pattern designer. It’s also been a lot of fun! Creating captivating and engaging patterns is an art that involves more than just aesthetics. By focusing on just...

Discover how to conquer perfectionism, imposter syndrome, and self-doubt while thriving as a creative entrepreneur in the world of surface pattern design.

Can I let you in on a secret? Well, a few secrets, actually!

First, let's travel back to 2009, shall we? Picture this: I was in my mom's fabric store, surrounded by vibrant bolts of fabric. One day, as I held a fabric roll in my hands, it hit me—someone out there...

Discover how to turn your unique strengths and creative expertise into income by teaching what you know with confidence, clarity, and purpose.

I want to dispel the notion that knowing your niche has to be daunting and show you how it can be beautifully fulfilling. It can breathe life, joy, and passion into your journey as a creative entrepreneur.

Let’s start by examining your unique knowledge or skill and identify ...