How I Grew My Surface Pattern Design Business from Scratch

When I first stumbled into the world of surface pattern design, I had no idea it would one day become both a passion and a thriving business. Like many creatives, I started with a sketchbook, a love for all things creative, and a growing curiosity about how art could live beyond the page on fabric, wallpaper, stationery, and more.

But let me be honest: it wasn’t a straight path. There were a lot of missteps, slow seasons, and moments of doubt. This is the story of how I grew my surface pattern design business and the lessons I learned along the way.

1. It Started with Daily Creating (and a Lot of Googling)

I didn’t go to art school or start with a clear plan. Instead, I began by carving out 20–30 minutes a day (between caring for babes, our home and life) to create, sketch florals, experiment with watercolors, and learn how to digitize artwork.

I fell in love with the process, but I also spent hours researching terms like “what is surface pattern design” and “how to sell art on fabric.” My first patterns were messy, unrefined, and very much a work-in-progress but they taught me everything I needed to know.

Lesson: Don’t wait to feel “ready.” Start messy. The growth is in the doing.

2. I Invested in Learning the Business Side

Surface design isn’t just about making pretty patterns it’s also about understanding licensing, branding, and marketing. I joined a few online courses, studied contract templates, and slowly started building my online pressence and “live Instagram portfolio” with intention.

The more I understood the value of my art, the more confident I became interacting with brands, building my website, and sharing my work online.

Lesson: Treat your creativity like a business if you want it to grow like one.

3. Instagram Became My Portfolio (Not Just a Gallery)

I stopped posting randomly and started curating my feed to showcase my patterns in action on fabric mockups, swaddles, wallpaper, stationery, and more. I also shared behind-the-scenes glimpses of my process, sketchbook, and life as a working artist.

To my surprise, brands started reaching out. They’d seen a post, clicked through to my website, and wanted to license a design/s.

Lesson: You don’t always have to cold pitch. When your presence is intentional, opportunities come to you.

4. Collaborations Built My Confidence (and My Income)

My first licensing deal was with a small baby brand. I was nervous, unsure if I priced things correctly, but I learned a lot and that design is still one of their bestsellers. From there, I slowly built a client list across textiles, wallpaper, and stationery.

I now have repeat brand partners, a licensing portfolio of hundreds of designs, and new collections in the works at all times.

Lesson: Say yes before you feel 100% ready. Each opportunity is a stepping stone.

5. I Built Systems to Keep It Sustainable

To stay consistent, I created routines: batching artwork, marketing (Instagram + Pinterest), building a licensing catalog (Spoonflower), and blocking out time to explore new ideas. I now balance paid work, creative play, and mentoring other artists through my Creative Mentorship program.

Lesson: Sustainability in your business comes from systems, structure, and support.

Final Thoughts

If you’re just starting out in surface pattern design, I want you to know: it’s possible. Not overnight, not without effort but with heart, clarity, and consistency, you can grow a business doing what you love.

Your art has value. Your voice matters. And there’s room for your art in the world!

👉 Want to grow your own surface pattern design business?
Explore my free resources in my weekly Studio Notes and join my waitlist for The Creative Mentorship, where I help overwhelmed artists find clarity, grow their skills, and attract licensing opportunities with support every step of the way.

Rooted in beauty around us, growing with you.

p.s. Want to stay in touch and receive weekly tips and resources like a custom monthly mock ups?  join my Studio Notes here 🫶