Creating Trendy Abstract Patterns in Adobe Illustrator

Using patterns is a great way to add excitement and playfulness to any design project! There are numerous different pattern styles, but one of the latest trends are these bold, quirky and striking in their simplicity Neo-Memphis style patterns. They have found their way into every creative field from graphic and interior design to fashion and pottery—nothing where a pattern can be applied has been spared from this trend!

I am Evgeniya Righini-Brand, and in this class I will be covering tools and techniques for creating eye-catching abstract patterns in Adobe Illustrator. As a graphic designer I love patterns and often use them in my projects.

Abstract patterns like this are extremely quick, fun and easy to create, and they don’t require any drawing skills. This class is suitable for anyone, and I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create your own set of super cool abstract patterns, which you can then use any way you can think of!

I cannot wait to see your patterns, enrol now and let’s make something awesome!

In this class I'll cover:

• approaches to designing abstract patterns;
• using a range of tools to create pattern elements, including Pen, Pencil, Smooth, Blob Brush and Shape tools;
• using Stroke settings to customise pattern elements;
• arranging pattern elements and creating chaotic non-repatable and manually arranged repeatable seamless patterns;
• colouring and recolouring techniques;
• saving pattern swatches & exporting tiled artwork from Illustrator.

Abstract patterns you will create in this class can be used in a lot of different ways:

• printed products (to print yourself or upload to platforms like Society6);
• elements of visual identity systems;
• wrapping paper, printed fabric or wallpaper (can be printed and sold through platforms like Spoonflower);
• photo backdrops;
• website backgrounds.

Research & Reference:

Abstract Patterns — our research & inspiration board on Pinterest

Trend Alert: 1980s Memphis Design — article about Neo-Memphis style on Creative Market

Memphis Group — a set of articles about the original movement on the Design Museum website

The return of Memphis — article about the return of the style on Dezeen

Related Classes:

• Introduction & Overview
• Approaches to Abstract Patterns
• File Setup
• Creating Pattern Elements: Line Segments
• Creating Pattern Elements: Zigzags
• Creating Pattern Elements: Wavy Lines
• Creating Pattern Elements: Squiggles
• Creating Pattern Elements: Organic Shapes
• Creating Pattern Elements: Geometric Shapes
• Customising Elements with Stroke Settings
• Arranging Elements
• Randomising Patterns
• Creating a Repeatable Pattern
• Colouring Patterns
• Saving Swatches & Exporting Patterns
• Final Thoughts & Conclusion