theBlog @reneepearson.com
Laura Coyle: Seamless Repeat Pattern Fills
In this video tutorial I show students in my Automatic Patterns class how to make an Adobe Illustrator pattern fill swatch from the patterns we create in class. If you’re already familiar with the class, you can skip the introduction and go right to 1:30, where the tutorial begins.
In the class, we create seamless repeat patterns using Transform Effects, allowing you to tweak a pattern and see the changes update instantly in CS4 and CS5 — something unheard of before the introduction of the new CS6 Pattern Mode.
The class focuses on exporting png and jpeg images of Illustrator repeat patterns for Spoonflower fabric, blogging, digital scrapbooking and crafting. The tutorial above shows the steps for creating Illustrator fill swatches, so the patterns you create in class can also be applied to any vector art you’re working on in Illustrator.
The tutorial also highlights one of my favorite Adobe Illustrator tools, the Eraser tool. It’s great for working with expanded pattern art, but I’m sure you’ll discover your own uses for the Eraser. Have fun!
New! Laura Coyle Automatic Patterns Workshop
Want patterns that automatically update in Adobe Illustrator CS4 or CS5? Then you want Automatic Patterns with Laura Coyle.
This self-paced workshop will show you how to reposition, edit and recolor elements within your patterns, then watch them automatically update on your artboard. Your creativity will be freed from the usual methods of dragging art into the swatches panel! If you’ve already upgraded to Adobe Illustrator CS6, this workshop is compatible and offers a pattern editing method that compliments what you can do in the CS6 Pattern Mode.
Experience the functionality of the templates right away by working with a collection of Laura’s original design elements.
Tailored to the needs of pattern designers, the lessons guide you through the process of uploading for repeat pattern prints at Spoonflower as well as exporting pattern papers for your web portfolio or digital crafting projects.
Laura will talk about this exciting class during a live video chat.
When: Wednesday, Aug 8th at 9pm EDT
Where: ReneeTV
If you’re curious or have questions about the class or would simply like to bounce a few questions about this class off of Laura, please stop by.
You can learn more about Automatic Patterns at http://www.reneepearson.com/classes/autopatterns.php.
Freebie Friday: Pixels & Ice Cream
What’s better than ice cream on a hot August day? Pixels & Ice Cream, of course!
Pixels & Ice Cream is a place for designers to pick up pretty (fabulous) freebies for both personal and commercial use. (more…)