4 Traits Your Next Surface Pattern Designer Should Have

Working with a skilled, talented surface pattern designer for your next collection can make all the difference in the world. However, it’s not all about talent and creativity – both quite necessary in the industry if you ask me.

But I believe it’s also a lot about the relationship between you – as an art director or creative CEO in your company – and the surface pattern designer. It’s about the chemistry between the two of you, and how well you communicate.

Depending on the size of your project and the amount of custom work the designer has to put in to deliver the final layout, here are a couple of traits your next team member should have if you want a seamless process:

1.Your surface pattern designer should be flexible

Let’s say you find a pattern you are absolutely in lovewith and you can already envision it on your next launch. But there are slight changes you would like to make so that it fits your vision perfectly. Depending on the package you’re choosing, the designer could either accept alterations or not – and this is where flexibility comes in handy.

Is the designer willing to make slight changes to fit your vision?

Is there any other offer he/she can make so that you can still get the final layout you’re looking for?

So, for example, I am offering both options, and the prices vary accordingly.

2.Proactive Communicator

This is in an industry where deadlines are expected to be met, so an ideal relationship should be focused on good communication. Think of quick responses, being open to the idea of brainstorming together, a willingness to do extra research, availability on the phone or a fast-response rate by email, and so on.

This is probably one of the most important aspects when choosing your next freelance surface pattern designer, as it can save you both a lot of precious time.

3.A visionary

When you’re looking for a designer, make sure the person you’re choosing knows the trends in the industry and is constantly adapting his/her creations accordingly. This is extremely important if you want your designs to stay relevant and fresh. This person needs to know what’s happening on the market – what colours, shapes, and textures are popular.

It is crucial that your next surface pattern designer understands your vision

HOWEVER (I used capitals on purpose), if the pattern designer you’ve chosen has a particular, unique style – let’s say abstract – you might see how that can fit into your agenda.

So, let's say, for example, you've been following their work for a while. You know they're trustworthy, they answer promptly, and they're known to be flexible enough, and on top of that, they are lovely as a person – how do you incorporate the trendy part?

In the end, I believe it’s all about the purpose of your new collection. Is it supposed to be on-trend? Is it more on-brand and not necessarily trendy?

Remember, your new collaborator should support your goals. That's why you're looking for a professional designer in the first place.

4.Willing to learn and improve

We, human beings, are designed to continuously evolve and process new information. And so you want the surface pattern designer who caught your eye to always be curious and eager to learn. Almost like having that childish desire to know more, to experiment, to see “what happens if”. 

This way, you’ll make sure that your new partner is genuinely interested in your company, and in bringing your vision to life. The partnership brings out the excitement in them, and you can clearly see they are invested because the first thing they do is research your past collections to better understand your values and view, and comes up with new ideas to try out.

If that’s the case, this one is clearly a keeper!

 And remember, at the end of the day, you’re looking for a partner, so keep that in mind as well.

Are there any other traits you would have liked to see on my list? Let me know in the comments. I'm more than happy to adjust (see? I'm flexible and eager to learn, too, haha!).