Textiles and surface pattern: understanding repeats

About this course

The course introduces repeat-pattern construction through demonstrations and practical exercises. Learners use drawing, tracing paper, photocopies, cutting, sticking and printing to explore straight, drop, mirror and complex repeats, working with grids and guides to structure the designs. They develop an initial motif or print into a larger repeat on paper, then select a design to translate into a textile print using simple blocks, colour and basic printing techniques. Teaching combines demonstrations, hand-outs, group discussion and individual assistance, with additional design development encouraged between sessions.

What you'll learn

• Construct repeat designs on paper using grids, guides and paper-based development methods
• Distinguish between straight, drop, mirror and complex repeat structures
• Develop a drawing or motif into a larger repeat pattern
• Create block-printed repeat samples on paper and fabric
• Apply basic repeat-pattern methods to textile surface design

Is this course right for you?

The course is suitable for complete beginners as well as learners with a textile or design background. It may also suit those working in related disciplines where patterns are applied to surfaces. Participation includes following written and verbal instructions, group discussion, practical exercises and some work between sessions.

• Suitable for complete beginners
• Requires participation in group discussion alongside individual practical work
• Learners should be able to use numbers and carry out measurements and calculations
• Additional design development outside the sessions is encouraged

Before you go

• Basic materials and resources are available as part of the course.
• Learners should bring visual inspiration, such as old designs, magazine tear-outs or postcards.
• A sketchbook or scrapbook is needed for drawings and designs.