patterns

Pattern making demo - Part 2 by Esther Loopstra

I finished the second part of my demo on how to use Adobe Capture CC and Adobe Illustrator to create repeatable patterns from your drawings. In this video you will learn how to use the Live Paint tool and the Pattern tool to color your shapes and then turn them into a repeatable pattern. It's really fun and easy, enjoy!

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Adobe Capture CC and Illustrator pattern tutorial by Esther Loopstra

I've been pretty blown away with Adobe's Capture CC app and how easily you can turn your sketches or drawings into vectors. These "shapes" as they call them go directly into your Adobe Library so you can open them in Photoshop or Illustrator. How fun is that?

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Designs for Joann Fabric by Esther Loopstra

Here are a few designs that I created for Joann Fabric Stores that are online and in stores now. These are flannel and fleece fabric so perfect for new winter pj's or blankets! 

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Free pattern wallpaper download for tablet or phone by Esther Loopstra

Happy New Year! I hope you had a beautiful holiday season and got some rest, relaxation and inspiration! In the spirit of giving, I wanted to share this pattern I made, I created this as a doodle in my sketchbook and just turned into into a pattern for anyone to use on your computer, tablet or phone. Just click on the link, download and upload to your device as a background. If you like it please share. Enjoy!

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Book Review - Jump, Trust, Repeat by Jessica Swift by Esther Loopstra

I've been following Jessica Swift for quite a few years now. She's a wonderful illustrator and pattern designer and  lately she's delved into creating and selling more and more products and has been super successful.  I feel like I can relate to her style a bit because she has a lovely hand drawn quality to her work and she has a lot of different mediums that she works in like painting as well as illustration as well as surface design.  She has managed to create a cohesive brand throughout, which is something that I'm always looking to do.

I have been wanting to read her e-book Jump, Trust, Repeat for awhile, and when she had a sale on it early last month I JUMPED at the the chance to get it!  For anyone who is looking to get into the business of selling products, repeat patterns or just a creative venture, I would highly recommend reading this book.

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I love Jessica's casual style of writing, her enthusiasm makes you want to get out and do something!  She gives you so much detailed information that is truly helpful.  Her honesty and openness is refreshing, it makes you feel like you are not the only one who has struggled with doubt or made a wrong decision.  

The book is inspiring in that it makes me feel that I can create in my own way and not have to worry about what others think. She emphasizes over and over again that you don't need to follow any one else's plan. I like that her designs just flow out of her own mind and inspiration.

I'm happy that I read this book at the beginning of the new year, I've set a lot of new goals to make my business successful!  Definitely pick up this e-book if you and looking to start your own business or just be re-inspired!  You can find it on her website HERE!