Before I tell you all about this life-changing program, let's talk about who this is really for...
You're a multi-passionate creative who's always dreamed of putting your designs on fabric or stationary or building a creative business and you're ready to invest in yourself and build a business that allows you to share your gifts with the world and work wherever, whenever, and however you'd like.
Whether you're...
- a mom with kids at home who's always been creative but knows that now is the perfect time to gain validation and the empowerment that comes from getting your artwork out into the world
- a multi-passionate creative who's still in a 9 to 5 job but knows in your heart of hearts that having a viable creative business ready to soar when you retire is your true goal
- a successful entrepreneur who's ready to expand your creative business into surface design and loves a step by step framework to follow
You're in the right place and I'm going to tell you exactly how The Pattern Design Academy™ will give you the tools, inspiration, and unparalleled support on your journey to creating and selling your artwork successfully.
By the end of this program,
you'll have:
- Mastered Adobe Illustrator like a boss and wielding these new skills in ways you couldn't have imaged before.
- Created beautiful repeating patterns across a full spectrum of design types from geometrics to tossed, layered and more.
- Expertly developed a comprehensive series of designs that showcase your capabilities as a artist.
- Produced a collection of work that highlights your unique style and leans into what you love to design most.
- Assessed the wide variety of industries and product types open to you and decided on the right place to start.
- Explored the incredibly diverse options for selling your work beyond household products and fabrics including vector graphics, spot graphics, digital downloads and more.
- Developed your specific business strategy that leverages what you do best and how you want to interact with customers.
- Crafted a compelling roadmap that gets your designs into customers hands with just the right approach.
Enroll in The Pattern Design Academy Today
Get my Comprehensive Guide to Licensing when you pay in full.
A Small Sample of Our
Amazing Alumni
Annie Tempest of tottering.com
The skill I have acquired is not to be afraid of the computer. Surface design enables me to leverage my existing skills as a cartoonist and expand my business. I have loved doing Anne’s course.
Melissa Tubbs
If you want to learn pattern design, Anne is the best person to learn from. She teaches without assuming you already know everything. Her videos are tremendously helpful and her teaching style is great because she is extremely patient.
Mary Chapman-Smith of ShopVida.com
I’m starting down a new path focused on kids design trends. I also want to create strong patterns for different purposes. I already have cushions, bed linens, purses, umbrellas, wraps, t-shirts, tea towels. When Anne says the possibilities are endless, she’s right!
Susie Pogue of CreativeBloomDesigns.net
Since joining Anne’s program, I have gained the confidence to pursue surface design and enjoy
the flexibility I need to spend time with my son. I’m developing a flourishing artistic business and
hope to inspire others to pursue their passion!
Heather Lowery of InkwoodPress.com
My biggest challenge prior to joining Anne’s course was discovering my signature style. I’m a very tactile
person and translating my woodblock prints into digital art has been an interesting journey. Anne's encouragement and support are invaluable.
Barbara Abbatiello of BarbaraAbbatiello.com
I’m a perfectionist. It's
paralyzing at times. I stop myself before I start. I think everything has to be figured out in my head
and has to be a masterpiece before my pencil or brush hits the paper. That’s a lot of pressure, right? Anne helped me break through this cycle and her endless enthusiasm and passion are contagious.
What's Inside The Pattern Design Academy™
Module 1: Mastering Adobe Illustrator
Here's why it pays to learn from someone who's gone before you - I learned Adobe Illustrator at the age of 58. I know how overwhelming it may feel at the beginning and we're going to take it one step at a time.
We'll start by opening the program together and taking a tour to get you familiar with the layout. We'll match what you see on your screen with what's on mine as much as possible so that you can follow along as though I'm looking over your shoulder.
You'll discover your favorite tools and workflow and dive into pattern design with confidence.
Finally, you'll achieve mastery in the program so that the technology moves into the background and you can focus your time and energy on your design work.
Highlights:
- Get familiar with the program so you know how to find the tools you need and can navigate and move around with confidence. You'll be delighted to discover different ways to accomplish the same result.
- Discover which tools work best for you and help you achieve the design result you're looking for.
- Enjoy practicing different techniques by using my practice files so that you aren't starting from scratch.
Module 2: Developing Your Workflow
Let's take a break from the computer and build a mood board together. Doesn't that sound great? I've found over the years of teaching this program that we need to step away from the computer from time to time and use our hands.
Creating a mood board is both fun and an important way to open your mind to the different aspects of creative inspiration that will influence your designs.
Let's explore theme, color, scale and what inspires you the most so that you can discover and hone your unique signature style with ease.
In this module, you'll develop an effective workflow that will help free your imagination to the possibilities open to you as an artist and surface designer.
Highlights:
- Discover what a mood board is and why this is one of the most effective ways to start the design process.
- Explore theme, color, scale and technique so that you discover what inspires you the most.
- Dive into the rich heritage of surface design and embrace the infinite possibilities.
Module 3: All About Motifs
What is a motif, you ask? It's a design element or an individual decorative piece that makes up your repeating pattern. If you look at some of the patterns on this page, you'll see the "motifs" within them.
The example on the right is a series of imaginary flowers. Those are my motifs along with other elements that I placed together in a pleasing manner to create the repeating pattern.
In this module, we'll explore all of the different ways you can create motifs. You can draw by hand or right inside the computer. We'll practice a variety of different methods together so that you know the universe of tools at your disposal.
Highlights:
- Discover how to create motifs using the pen, pencil and blog brush tools.
- Experience the thrill of pulling elements from a photograph - and discover the endless design options within it.
- Embrace what's around you in nature to identify themes and organic elements to inspire your sketching.
Module 4: Pattern Design Fundamentals
Curious about what makes a repeating pattern work both technically and from an esthetic point of view?
In this module, you'll discover why certain patterns work and why some don't and my Three Golden Rules to nail the technical part every single time.
We'll also dive into color and one of the most popular tools inside Illustrator - the recolor artwork tool!
Finally, I've made every mistake in the book so I've organized this module around the most common mistakes and how to fix them.
You'll come away knowing how to design a beautiful repeating pattern, how to play and explore color and how to quickly identify and fix any mistake you might make.
Highlights:
- Discover the magic of my Three Golden Rules so that your designs repeat perfectly every time.
- Find answers quickly to the most common mistakes - I made them all! - and fix them effectively.
- Dive into color with the recolor artwork tool - a huge artist's favorite if ever there was one.
Module 5: Advanced Pattern Techniques
Are you ready to blow your mind with the different types and varieties of patterns to explore? I love this module because we'll dive into the technical jargon that get's thrown around in the industry and I'll decode it all for you.
We'll explore layered patterns and geometric patterns and patterns that use a half-drop technique.
We'll also explore adding background textures to your patterns like the one you see in the image on the right. And I'll show you how to make your own textures. So. Much. Fun.
This module will truly free your imagination to explore the endless possibilities open to you as an artist and surface designer.
Highlights:
- Explore the different types of pattern designs and how to build them.
- Build the same pattern using several different techniques - you'll find a method that's perfect for you.
- Discover the magic of building your own textures and the different ways to apply them in your designs.
Module 6: Designing in Collections
Why design in collections? We'll start by analyzing some beautiful pattern collections - those of some of my favorite artists and maybe one of my own. LOL.
Then we'll dive into what makes up a collection and the different features that make certain collections really WOW.
You'll see how color, scale and variety play an important role in the success of an overall collection and get tips and techniques to support you.
In this module, you'll also get the low down on trade shows and how to contact Art Directors at the companies on your wish list.
Finally, you'll discover how many different assets exist within your pattern collection. We'll explore how to leverage those assets to expand your sales and reach.
Highlights:
- Discover how to work in collections from the number of patterns and colors recommended to the ancillary assets they yield for you.
- Learn the ins and outs of trade shows and the different ways to attend.
- Dive into industry research to start building your network of contacts within your target companies' art department.
Module 7: The Business of Surface Design, Part 1
Whether you're interested in turning your designs into fabric, or creating your own set of stationary and paper products, or expanding your existing creative business, this module is essential.
We'll explore picking an industry to start - you're not limited to just one but picking one to start will accelerate your success.
We'll also dive into a variety of selling techniques that involve either direct contact with your customers or indirect methods - including print on demand companies - and both.
Finally, in this module, you'll actually set up shop with your first designs and start selling.
Highlights:
- We'll cover over 12 different ways to sell your work - I don't like to put all my eggs in one basket and I don't think you should either.
- You'll decide what products are best suited for your designs and which selling methods suit your personality.
- We'll dive into marketing and how to expand your reach through social media without getting overwhelmed by "all the things".
Module 8: The Business of Surface Design, Part 2
Here's where the rubber meets the road. Past students love this module because I give you my proven framework for how to build a successful creative business.
We switch gears a bit and dive into why building an email list is a critical foundational element in your business.
We also explore why it's important to have a website - even a very simple one - because this is your storefront.
In this module, you'll also get my recommendations and guidance on how to keep things simple - you can always get fancy later.
Finally, we'll dive into branding together and I'll share my personal approach to managing costs while not doing everything yourself.
Highlights:
- Identify and attract your ideal customer - I have a special worksheet to guide you through this important process.
- Start growing your email list with a compelling opt in - don't worry - I've got you covered on the tech here too.
- Get out your calendar and let's map out your next 3-6 months so you have a proven roadmap to follow.
When you enroll during this special,
limited time period, you'll get:
The Pattern Design Academy™
(a $1,997 Value)
- 8 beautifully crafted Modules that show you literally EVERYTHING you need to do to turn your artwork into beautiful and valuable designs that people want to buy.
- A complete, step-by-step framework that shows you how to create and leverage a series of patterns and ancillary products to expand your reach and increase sales.
- The 3 Golden Rules Formula to make sure you never deliver a design with hidden flaws and create collections that are perfectly balanced.
- Next level creative business practices including how to manage all of the assets in your business from your website and email list to your social media presence.
You'll get access to one module per week - they come out on Mondays - so that you have a full week to dive into the lessons and lean into that portion of the work BEFORE moving onto the next.
This is intentional. We do it this way to help you manage overwhelm, and to ensure that you're building on the skills you acquire each step along the way.
Plus These Special Bonuses to Help You Keep The Momentum Going
BONUS #1
8 Weeks of Live Q&A Sessions with Anne Inside The Pattern Design Academy - Class of October 2020 Facebook Group
This community is fondly called: Anne's Universe". It's one of the best parts of the entire experience.
(a $897 Value)
What You'll Get:
- 8 weeks of live Q&A sessions on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays (that's over 24 sessions) where we'll make sure you get your questions answered and can move forward with clarity.
- An active and highly supportive Facebook community with fellow students, Alumni Ambassadors and Team LaFollette to make sure you get unstuck in a matter of minutes instead of weeks.
- A community to lean into and find like-minded creatives where you can connect, exchange ideas and become lifelong friends.
- After the 8 weeks inside of The Pattern Design Academy private Facebook group. you'll move into my "Alumni Group" for Academy graduates only.
BONUS #2
Laser Coaching. What's laser coaching you ask? You pick a topic or process that you're stuck on and we discuss it live so everyone benefits from the answer.
Get your specific issue addressed in these "hot seat" sessions. Don't be shy, they're actually fun!
(a $697 Value)
What You'll Get:
- An opportunity to gain valuable insight on your specific issue. These sessions pin point challenges and give you the tools to move forward.
- Mindset coaching that gets to the root of the problem and helps you get unstuck. We all have those voices inside us trying to stop us from making progress.
- The empowerment that comes from speaking up and gaining validation for your ideas. We're all here for you and want to hear what you have to share.
- Support to embrace the courage it takes to move forward with your creative journey and share it openly with others.
BONUS #3
Working With Watercolor. Turning your watercolor work into successful repeating patterns requires special techniques.
(a $597 value)
What You'll Get:
- An entirely separate video series with the step-by-step process for turning your watercolor work into repeating patterns using special techniques inside Illustrator.
- Detailed videos demonstrating advanced blending and color techniques so that your watercolor patterns maintain that "watery" look.
- Special tips for saving your watercolor files to manage disk space. Watercolor patterns are huge!
Enroll in The Pattern Design Academy Today
Get my Comprehensive Guide to Licensing when you pay in full.
KEY FEATURES UNIQUE TO THE ACADEMY
NO EXPIRATION
When you join the ACADEMY program, you'll always have access to the 2020 course. It's important for you to work at your own pace. This means you can revisit the course again and again. Come back and refresh your skills anytime.
GLOBAL COMMUNITY
Join an amazing community of students from all around the globe. You'll be surrounded by support and encouragement as you share your challenges and your WINS! Anne's level of accessibility is unparalleled.
LIVE Q&As & DEMOS
Your questions get answered multiple times a week and if you get stuck, we do LIVE demos with your work to help you move forward. This is where the magic happens and it feels like we are in the same room together.
STRUCTURED APPROACH
Accomplish your goals faster with this step-by-step proven method. Each Module builds upon the next and Anne's constant guidance and up to date knowledge sets you up for success.
LEARN YOUR WAY
Everyone learns differently. The ACADEMY contains material offered in a variety of ways to support how you learn best. Videos, cheat sheets, actionable guides, practice files, and transcripts.
MONEY BACK GUARANTEE
Invest 100% risk free. The 14-day "no questions asked" guarantee is our way of giving you a no fault option. Just send an email before the guarantee expires. There are no hoops to jump through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Enrollment opens on October 12th. The enrollment period only last for four days. Mark your calendar to ensure you make your decision before enrollment closes at 11:59pm pacific time on October 15th.
When you enroll, you become a member of the Class of October 2020. Our kick-off party is on Friday, October 16th at 10am pacific time.
Module 1: Mastering Adobe Illustrator is released at 10am pacific time on Monday, October 19th.
Modules are released every Monday for a total of 8 weeks.
Great question! It's perfect for you if you:
- Have always dreamed of putting your designs on fabric but have no idea where to start
- Want to build or grow a creative business by expanding your offerings with products that have your very own designs on them
- Know how to use Illustrator but have never mastered surface design and repeating pattern techniques
- Feel overwhelmed by the prospect of learning this on your own and want a step-by-step process to follow
- Have gotten stuck on a project and need a breakthrough to get to the next level
- Want to be part of a community of creatives who help, encourage, and support one another
- Want thoughtful and clear instruction from a passionate teacher who wants to see you succeed and help you every step along the way
When you enroll in The Pattern Design Academy, you begin an 8 week online course and coaching program that delivers the A to Z about surface pattern design. New training modules are released every week, for 8 weeks, on Mondays. The training modules contain video tutorials with step by step instruction along with cheat sheets and workbooks. The course is supported with weekly FB LIVES where you'll get the answers to your questions as well as live demonstrations where you'll see my exact steps on screen.
You can engage with the content as much as you want and devote as much or as little time as works best for you. Developing strong surface pattern design skills takes time. Please work at the pace that's most comfortable for you. You get "lifetime access" which means you'll get any updates that I make to the material in the future, free of charge.
The Academy program is carefully crafted to lead you step by step through the process of becoming a professional surface pattern designer. The modules cannot be purchased separately.
We get started with our Class of October 2020 kick-off party on Friday, October 16th at 10am pacific time.
Modules are released on Mondays at 10am pacific time starting on Monday, October 19th. You'll receive email notifications when each module is released.
Our weekly LIVE coaching calls take place on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 10am starting on Monday, October 19. Replays are always available.
We offer a 14-day money back guarantee. If you aren't satisfied let us know by noon pacific standard time in the US on October 25, 2020 and we will refund your money.
I personally cannot wait to guide you over these next 8 weeks...
Creating products with my own designs on them has literally changed my life.
I've experienced first hand the heart break and trauma of losing one's job. I got laid off, totally unexpectedly, at the age of 55 from a company I loved and thought I'd work at forever.
But I emerged from that experience and reinvented myself because you know what? I'm not dead yet and I have a lot to offer this world. And so do you.
If you've always dreamed of putting your own designs on fabric, or having your own stationary line complete with gift cards and wrapping paper, or you're ready to build or grow a creative business, you owe it to yourself to explore what your life as a surface designer looks like.
Come experience first hand the empowerment, validation, and talent you have within you - and take real, tangible steps to share your art and bring joy to hundreds of customers all over the world.
If you join us, I'm confident that these next 8 weeks will be completely and utterly life changing for you.
I look forward to meeting you inside The Pattern Design Academy™ - Class of October 2020.
Let's make 2020 count, shall we?
xo,
Anne
Enroll in The Pattern Design Academy Today
Get my Comprehensive Guide to Licensing when you pay in full.
