Creating Patterns

[Back2Jake]

Since updating the Chrestensen Burghout Designs site recently, Sue and I have been discussing some of the threads regarding the use of software to create patterns. It seems what software people use, and how exactly to use it is a very popular subject.

One of the updates to our site includes our fretwork version of Bruce Worthington's (intarsia) "Spring Songbirds" from the spring issue of SSWC. I really enjoyed working out the fretwork pattern "old school" (with pencil and paper) which got me thinking....

For those who have an interest in patterns but shy away from them, are you intimidated by the thought that you need a computer and software to create a scrollable pattern?

Take care
Toni

[Forester21]

I've shied away from using computer programs to create my patterns. I find it easier to use paper, pencil, and light table.
T

[Jediscroller]

I started out with pencil and paper and have just preferred the results I get with the computer. Lately, I've been doing more pencil and paper patterns again but now can't seem to get them to look right once I scan them in to the computer (seems I've forgotten how to bridge the gap between the 2, hehehehe). Good question though Toni, I'm curious if people think you "need" a computer to do your own patterns. Heck, there are still at least a few folks who trace photos with tracing paper to create portrait type patterns.

[minowevie]

Hay Tonie, I think anything you a Sue come up with is amazing. computer or not. I am not a pattern maker, but I do dream up alot , inspiered from all of you. I wouldn't know how to use a computer to do anything I could dream up. but I do draw things out, just don't know how to put them into a pattern. to chicken I guess. I guess I will depend on all of you to make the patterns. I just don't have the time to do my own, or the time to cutt all the patterns I have, and wont. so till I get over myself, I will continue to just buy and cutt the patterns the experts make, available to me. sorry I am no help, just wonted to reply. Evie

[Arcablue]

I design intarsia patterns and love the computer- I sketch out ideas while waiting for classes to start, and scan the sketch. I then create a rough sketch using adobe photoshop and a wacom tablet... then vector the pattern in adobe illustrator. (A tablet for those who don't know is basically a really fancy sensitive version of the digital signature-pad that you sign at the store.) So in essence I use both the computer and paper. Of course this method takes a long time to create a pattern, but I just greatly dislike how most patterns made in pattern generators turn out. I guess the end result depends entirely on how much time and effort someone's willing to put into the pattern.

[CharlieDearing]

I may get some enemies on this, but it is meant with respect. I mean no arrogance or holier-than-thou attitude by it.
I have never used a computer to design my patterns. I only use a computer to color in my patterns. Alot of the patterns I have seen that are made on a computer basically look like black and white (not grayscale) pictures where the contrast is very bright. Other times the patterns may look good from a distance but if you see them close up they are merely a mass of squiggly lines. I say all of this as someone who always looks for patterns. This played alot into me starting to design patterns on my own. I still purchase and use others' patterns if I like them. My purpose when making a pattern or looking for one is to get as close to realistic as possible. Due to demand or preference I tone that detail down occasionally.
Again, this response was not to belittle anyone...just my in depth opinion.

[Andy]

I'm not intimidated in the least bit by the computer and software for creating a pattern. It's not the only way I do them but it works for me. With the recent improvements in photoshop I'd challenge anyone to differentiate some of the abilities of computer generated verses hand drawn art, not to mention patterns.

Andy

[CharlieDearing]

Thats why I said alot of...not all. Andy your patterns rock!

[lucky788scroller]

The things I have been designing, as well as my skills, make me design much like Theresa. A few simple drafting tools, a couple sharp pencils, a BIG eraser, and a makeshift light table using an aquarium with a flourescent light in it works fine for me. The only problem I have then is the lines arent clean and crisp like they need to be, so one of these days I will have to get a program to use to clean up the lines. When I send BobD a design now, its up to his staff to do that work for me before they use it in the magazine.I would much prefer to do that myself, but for now I have to rely on their technical skills.

[Gill]

Perhaps it doesn't matter what technique or tools you use to create your patterns. Perhaps what matters is that you practise and persevere using whatever tools happen to suit your style.

When we start learning any skill, we invariably make errors. As we persevere we master our tools and develop an eye for what we find satisfying.

Can I liken it to dancing? I'll often ask people if they dance and they say they can't. So I ask them if they would like to be able to dance and they say they would. Then I ask if they've ever considered taking dance classes...

... the invariable reply is, "But I can't dance."

How frustrating this circular argument is. That's why they have dance instructors - people who know you can't dance but who can teach you if you're prepared to put the effort in!

Sadly, we don't have many scroll saw pattern design teachers around. Nevertheless, anyone can learn simply by studying some of the tutorials that are available and then practising on their own. In time, you develop an 'eye', the same way that the terpsichoreally challenged will develop a sense of rhythm.

The best way to master pattern design is by doing it, no matter how low the base is that you start from.

Gill