Tigerprint's Xmas Pattern Competition

Just before New Year I entered Tigerprint's Xmas Pattern Competition. I didn't have much time as it was Christmas, but thought I would give it a go.

Take a look at the current competitions here, they are really good to enter into.

Here are the four designs I entered, all based on a hand drawn star design.

All designs are copyright of ellejanedesigns

Christmas Cards

I've finally finished designing my Christmas cards. Now I've just got to print them out and stick stars onto the tree design. That may take a while, as my parents have ordered 40 of them! I may be finished by tonight!

All designs shown are copyright of ellejanedesigns

The Art and Business of Surface Pattern Design - Featuring Rachael Taylor

I've been meaning to say for the last two weeks that I have signed up for a fantastic design course called 'The Art and Business of Surface Pattern Design' featuring Rachael Taylor.

Rachael is a UK freelance surface pattern designer, who's work is so lovely!!  Please take a look at Rachael's website here and for more info on the course here.  It's well worth a visit.

I can't tell you how excited I am to be taking part, it's just what I need at the minute.  My dream is to become a full time designer, so hopefully when I finish the course I will have that extra bit of confidence to make the big leap!! Exciting times ahead.

Pattern inspiration from nature

I've been out and about taking some pictures of nature for inspiration. I have to say I got a bit obsessed at taking pictures of man hole covers (who knew there were so many different patterns on them).  It was great to see how different patterns are just outside.

Baltic Mill Newcastle

I went into the Baltic Mill art gallery the other week, to have a look around.  If you have never been, it sits on the keyside in Newcastle, overlooking the Millennium Eye Bridge.

The exhibtions are very modern art, not everyones cup of tea (i.e my dad's), but the shop has lots and lots of design books and goodies. I could be there for hours!!

Witherslack Art Group annual exhibition - Jo Vincent

I visited the Lake District while on holiday and was recommend to go and I have look round the Witherslack Art Group exhibition.  It was set in a small old school room and was well worth the visit and had an interesting tree out side!!

There were a selection of artists, producing a range of paintings, jewellery and ceramic's.

One artist who I really loved was Jo Vincent a glass designer, who had some gorgeous pieces.  Take a look at here website here and take a look at few of her products shots below.

Back from hols

It's been a while since my last post, as I decided to take some much needed annual leave.  I wanted to completely switch off, so I went home to see my parents and I banned myself from using the computer which was really hard.

I'm back now feeling refreshed and trying to get into the swing of things again!