As I turned the corner, anticipating the new product display at my favorite pottery shop, I drew a breath when I saw it. Perfectly situated on the stand was the most intrinsically designed wood-patterned cutting board. The dark and light woods were alternately woven into the shape of a Christmas tree. Carved into the branches were cleverly shaped ornaments. It was creative, tasteful, and uncommon.
Is it just me or is Christmas the most enjoyable season to work with patterns? The themes are plentiful and amusing. The colors are vibrant and festive. The mood, well, that can be jolly, solemn, or somewhere in between. What an exciting season to be a pattern designer! It is also an exciting season to enjoy the handiwork of other designers.
As my Christmas tree cutting board indicates, brilliant design takes courage. Sometimes it takes a lot of failures and a bold outlook to create a cohesive design. As we move closer to Christmas and New Year's Day, there is still time to originate something masterful.
Our designer, Renee Geare, has created plenty of design examples to spark your creativity. Once you have devised and marketed your designs, explore ways to use them for others to enjoy during the holidays and beyond.
Here are four ways to use and display your designs this holiday:
1. Packaging
Gift-giving is a core activity during the holidays. Personalizing a gift in pretty packaging is a thoughtful way to show someone you prize them. Why not take it further and transfer your designed pattern onto the gift wrap and tags? Perhaps you could create patterned boxes, bows, bags, and even Scotch tape.
2. Greeting Cards
Greeting cards have become more sophisticated of late. It is interesting to see photos of grown-up kids, families in their matching jammies, and festively dressed pets. Yet, sometimes those cute greeting cards can seem a bit cookie-cutter. Why not break up the monotony? Your card will surely stand out if it portrays your original pattern design art.
Originality is a way to remind people that there is more depth to the season than meets the eye. People love to be inspired. In a commercialized world, an original work of art is a welcomed sight. Start by sending a card with your own holiday flair.
3. Decoration
Year after year, you can enjoy the fruits of your labor with tangible Christmas decorations featuring your own pattern designs. Some specific design forms include ornaments, throws, pillows, wall hangings, mailbox covers, and clothing.
Decorate your home with patterns, colors, and enhancements that you love. If you're fond of gingerbread houses and stockings, construct patterns using those symbols. Devise color themes that coincide best with your home.
Do you want to bring the natural elements of the season indoors? Try wood, greens, and berries. Incorporate natural colors into the patterns. If you prefer elegant simplicity, consider neutrally-themed patterns with metallic touches.
Have a different take on the traditional holiday elements. Make Santa's coat and hat emerald green and give him a cobalt blue sleigh. It's a good idea to choose your color palette first, then add your desired subjects.
4. Gifts
The possibilities of how to incorporate your patterns into gifts are limitless. Nevertheless, here are some popular ideas we believe top the list:
Some beloved products for your designs are jewelry boxes, socks, cell phone cases, totes, journals, mugs, shirts, pet paraphernalia, blankets, calendars, note pads, puzzles, and hats.
We encourage you to be brave and try other gizmos. You know your recipients and what their tastes include.
The takeaway is...
Be Bold.
Be Courageous.
Be You.
Have a Blast.
Create.
At Geare Designs, we love to help you unleash your creativity.
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