Becoming a Surface Pattern Designer: Why You Are Good Enough (And Why the Market Needs You)

“Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will” — Suzy Kassem

When I first started dreaming about becoming a surface pattern designer, two questions kept circling in my mind: “Am I good enough?” and “Is there even a market for me?”If you’re reading this, you’re probably wondering the same thing. Let’s dive into it together.

The “Good Enough” Question

First of all: being “good enough” isn’t a fixed destination. It’s a journey.

When I looked at my early designs, I saw so many flaws — wonky lines, awkward color combinations, and patterns that didn’t seem to fit anywhere. But I kept going. Every sketch, every finished pattern, every experiment taught me something new.

And honestly? What I saw on the screen wasn’t always what I saw once I turned it into a repeating pattern. Sometimes a design that looked beautiful as a single image became too busy, awkward, or disjointed when it was tiled. Learning to create smooth, flowing repeats was an entirely different skill — and it took time and patience to figure it out.

But that’s part of the process: realizing that what looks good on a screen and what works as a repeat are two different things, and learning how to bridge that gap.

You don’t have to be a master today. You only need to be willing to learn.

Surface pattern design is as much about persistence and growth as it is about talent. If you have the passion to create, the patience to practice, and the curiosity to keep exploring styles, then yes, you are good enough.

And with time, you’ll only get better.

Is There a Market for Me?

The second fear I had was whether the market even needed another pattern designer.

After all, the internet is full of beautiful work by incredibly talented artists.

But here’s what I discovered: The market is huge, and it thrives on diversity.

Surface patterns are everywhere: on fabrics, wallpapers, stationery, gift wraps, fashion, home goods, even phone cases. Brands are constantly looking for fresh, unique styles. Your background, your tastes, your story — these give your designs a voice that no one else can replicate.

It’s not about being the best designer; it’s about being your authentic self and finding the right audience or client who connects with your style.

How to Find Your Place

• Build a portfolio: Show your patterns in mockups — think pillows, notebooks, tote bags. Help people visualize how your designs can live in the real world.

• Put yourself out there: Platforms like Spoonflower, Society6, Etsy, and Shopify make it easier than ever to reach a global audience.

• Keep evolving: Trends shift. Styles change. Be open to learning new techniques, trying different themes, and adjusting your portfolio.

• Connect with your community: Other designers aren’t just your competition — they can be your allies, collaborators, and greatest inspiration.

The Real Answer

Yes, there is a market for you.

Yes, you are good enough — or at least, you’re good enough to start.

And starting is the most important step.

We often think success happens after we’re good enough, but in truth, you become good enough through the process of putting your work into the world, listening, learning, adjusting, and trying again.

So if you’re still wondering if you should take the leap: you should.

Your voice, your art, and your patterns matter.

I would love to hear your story!

Are you just starting your surface pattern design journey? Or have you been creating for a while and still battling doubts sometimes?

Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments or connect with me — let’s inspire each other.

Keep creating, keep believing, and remember: the world is waiting for what only you can bring.

Warm and inspiring greetings,