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Dear Reader,

Congrats to Kathleen, Kristen, Justine, Monika, Cindy, Crystal and Lucille, who have enrolled in From Paint to Pattern (via my link, thank you!)

Sarah Watts' From Paint to Pattern course, which teaches you how to use Adobe Photoshop for surface pattern design, is open for enrollment for a few more days. If you're mulling it over, get Sarah's 3x3 replays here, and she'll email you with more info about the course.

Today, I thought I'd share some of the "dark arts"—these are Sarah's designs on dark backgrounds. Keep scrolling to see designs curated from The Pattern Journal submissions!

Sarah says, “I love drawing animals – there is something very soothing about the process of drawing something so innocent.” The animals may be cuddly, but Sarah’s other art carries a macabre tone she’s also known for: “I love creepy stuff and nature, so I try to capture all of that. Growing up, Halloween was like our Christmas – plus we lived in some haunted houses! So that comes through in my designs. I've always appreciated the holiday because it's a time when everyone can be whatever they wish without judgment.” (via Ruby Star)

No matter your style—light or dark, fancy or grungy, floral or funky—From Paint to Pattern will teach you everything you need to know to transform your ideas into patterns (and sellable art) in Photoshop!

When you sign up via my recommendation, you'll get access to my bonus: a group call and portfolio review, plus tips on submitting to the upcoming UPPERCASE Surface Pattern Design Guide.

Pattern Journal Submissions with dark backgrounds (and one colourful pineapple design just for fun!)

"Black Collection"
Yuliia Bahniuk

The Black Collection was created to describe the beauty of nature and particular species through art. I created this collection of patterns on a black background as a symbol that currently, many of the species in the world are facing dark times and some even extinction, and how it's important to help them. The vibrant colours of animals and their various poses show their beauty and uniqueness. In total, there are 13 patterns with such species as toucan, lemur, turtle, snake, octopus, beetle, owl, rhino, heron, moth, leopard, underwater creatures and one with various species representing biodiversity. It's my favourite collection, and I hope to create more that is dedicated to nature and the environment. Instagram / Website​

"Floral passion"
Joana Velozo

I’m a Brazilian artist inspired by local flora who creates intricate patterns. My designs are feminine and rhythmic, with a fresh take on vintage. I believe inspiration is set in motion by doing: drawing is a habit, and my creative practice starts with observing the foliage and flora around me. My consistent drawing practice generates countless sketchbooks from which I draw ideas for illustrations and motifs. I usually photograph the drawings and redraw them digitally in Photoshop, where I apply my favourite colours to create both digital home decor wall art and surface patterns. I love designs that catch the eye, adjusting the repeat to find the right balance for the finished pattern. The use of colour is definitely an important part of my creative process: restricting the colour palette pushes me to be more creative concerning composition, balance and, ultimately, my personal style. Instagram / Website​

"Anniversary Navy"
Terry Jane Robertson

I am an Immersion 2020 alumni. I’ve always been an artist/designer and was so excited to learn how to make repeating patterns. Taking Bonnie’s class was a pivotal step. My focus is on interior design usage and home textiles. Spoonflower / Instagram / Website​

"Painterly Fruit & Floral Fun"
Lisa Martin

Living near the ocean gives me “sunny side of the street vibes” that I inject into my art. Beachside Designs was born when I revisited my childhood love of art. These are from two collections. Watercolour florals have me trapped in their mystical spell above. Below is a fun fruit print inspired by Eyre Hall’s historic Orangery ruins. These are acrylic and mixed media. Currently, my work is on greeting cards and wall art. This is my first spot of courage, to let my patterns out into this great big world. Instagram / Website​