Digital Pattern Design and Print

This course is for anyone looking to learn the principles of digital pattern design using Adobe Photoshop & Illustrator, and gain an insight into the digital fabric print process. It will be an advantage if you have some previous experience, but not absolutely necessary as guidance, handouts and online information will be made available. If you have no previous experience of Photoshop and Illustrator the evening course format would be recommended. Based on Digital Textile Design, this course will encompass all the skills you will need to get you started. And it will focus on the two main print specific Adobe Products; Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator. You will learn some of basic drawing skills which will lead to generating pattern repeating designs. The patterns will then be printed on to a lightweight cotton fabric. The primary aim of this course is to introduce you to digital printed textile design techniques and to learn the differences between the two main Adobe Image editing packages. It would be an advantage if you could bring along any of your own designs or photographs of patterns that influence you.

Topics covered will include: Designing and editing images in Photoshop; Freehand and precise drawing techniques, using Adobe Illustrator; Creating pattern designs, using both Adobe Photoshop & Illustrator; Visualisation techniques using Adobe Photoshop; An insight into the digital fabric printing process. You will leave the course with the ability to create pattern repeats in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. You will be able to prepare print ready documents and have a greater knowledge of the processes involved with digitally printing your designs onto fabric. You may go on to create your own designs or apply for another course.