top of page
Pattern Play
Small repeated marks can become something surprisingly interesting.
.png)
Pattern is one of the easiest ways to begin making art. You do not need to draw realistically or come up with a big idea. Start with one simple mark, repeat it, and see where it leads.
What You'll Need
Keep this simple:
📄 Paper
✏️ Pencil, pen, or marker
⏱️ A few minutes
✨ Curiosity
Remember
There is no wrong way to make a pattern.
Just start with one mark.
Start With One Mark
Choose One Simple Mark
.png)
dots
.png)
lines
.png)
circles
.png)
organic
Draw one mark several times. Let the marks sit close together, spread apart, overlap, or change direction. Repetition is what turns a simple mark into a pattern.
Change One Thing
Make the Pattern More Interesting
Change the Size
.png)
Mix large and small marks.
Change the Spacing
.png)
Place some marks close together and others farther apart.
Change the Direction
.png)
Turn the marks or let them move across the page.
Add Color
Try the same pattern in two or three colors.
.png)
Fill a Shape
Give Your Pattern a Place to Live
Draw a simple shape such as a circle, leaf, heart, square, or wavy form.
Fill the inside with repeated marks.
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
Leave a few areas unfilled. White space helps your patterns stand out.
Combine Patterns
Try More Than One
Some of the most interesting drawings combine different kinds of marks. Try pairing dots with lines, thick marks with thin ones, or busy areas with open space. Notice how the patterns change when they sit next to one another.
Try This Next
The 10-Minute Pattern Challenge
-
Draw one large shape.
-
Divide it into four or five sections.
-
Fill each section with a different repeated mark.
-
Do not erase.
-
Stop after ten minutes.
.png)
There is no perfect pattern. Every repeated mark teaches you something.
bottom of page