Character Design Crash Course: Characters for Surface Pattern Design

Welcome to Character Design Crash Course, a series of illustration classes meant for beginning cartoonists or intermediate character artists looking for a refresher. In this class, I cover things to consider when designing characters specifically for surface patterns. I demonstrate how simple changes can alter the expression and feel of a character, and I share my tips for creating successful characters for both repeat patterns and placement prints that can be applied to a variety of different products in a variety of different markets. I also demonstrate my personal process for creating a repeat pattern tile in Adobe Photoshop.

What You'll Learn

• How to Create Successful Characters for SPD: I talk about certain things to keep in mind when designing characters for repeating patterns, as well as go over what makes a design more appealing to the children's market and/or adult markets.
• Experiment with Expression: How small changes in expression can alter the look and feel of a character, even with the most simplistic of styles.
• Building a Pattern: My entire process for creating a repeat tile in Adobe Photoshop out of watercolor painted characters!

What You'll Make

An adorable character to use in a placement print or repeating pattern!

Your assignment is to create a cute animal character suitable for the children’s market. It’s up to you whether you want to use it in a placement print or technical repeat.

Your project should include your fully illustrated character, as well as your rough brainstorming sketches. I'd love to see your process! 

RECOMMENDED BOOKS

• The Silver Way: Techniques, Tips, and Tutorials for Effective Character Design by Stephen Silver
• All of the Print & Pattern books, but especially Print and Pattern: Kids by Bowie Style
• Steal Like an Artist, Keep Going, and Show Your Work! by Austin Kleon