How to Do Trend Research as a Surface Pattern Designer
Trend research does not have to feel like you are chasing whatever is popular that week. When you approach it with intention, it becomes a steady practice that helps you understand what is happening in the market without pulling you away from your own voice. Think of it as gathering inspiration with purpose.
Here is a simple and honest way to approach trend research as a surface pattern designer.
1. Start With Observation, Not Imitation
Begin by paying attention to what is showing up around you. Instead of trying to guess what will sell, look for ideas that keep popping up in the spaces you spend time in.
Notice things like:
Colors you see repeated in home decor or clothing
Motifs that appear in fashion previews or seasonal displays
The overall feeling different brands seem to be leaning toward
This stage helps you develop your instincts so you can sense where things are headed while staying true to your own style.
2. Choose a Small Set of Sources
Trend research can become overwhelming, so keep your sources simple and intentional. You do not need dozens.
A solid mix might be:
Forecasting platforms like WGSN, Trend Bible, or Pinterest Predicts
Retail inspiration from boutique clothing brands and home decor shops
Runway previews for color direction and mood
Social platforms where you already enjoy browsing
Pick sources that feel connected to your own artistic world so the research feeds you instead of distracting you.
3. Build a Visual Trend Folder
Create one place where you collect everything that sparks interest. Pinterest, Milanote, or even a photo folder works well.
Save anything that catches your eye:
Color stories
Botanicals and natural shapes
Textures
Mood or lifestyle images
You are not gathering finished patterns. You are gathering sparks. As the folder grows you will start to notice patterns in what you are drawn to.
4. Explore Other Industries Too
Great trend insights often come from looking outside the design world.
For example:
Interiors show long term color stories
Fashion reveals seasonal energy
Packaging and stationery highlight small motifs gaining traction
Lifestyle trends show what people are craving
If you see the same theme across multiple areas, it usually means there is something meaningful behind it.
5. Look for the “Why” Behind What You See
Trends often reflect what people want more of in their lives. Soft colors, nostalgic florals, handmade textures, earth inspired palettes, all point to something deeper.
Ask yourself:
Why is this showing up now
What is the feeling behind it
What is the shift people are responding to
Understanding the why helps you design with more intention instead of guessing.
6. Mix Trends With Your Own Style
This is the part that brings your research to life. You are not copying trends. You are interpreting them through the way you naturally create.
For example:
If warm fruit motifs are showing up, you might paint them in gentler tones
If retro florals are popular, you might translate that into soft silhouettes or painted textures
Trends give you direction. Your style gives the work heart.
7. Make a Simple Seasonal Inspiration Guide
Every season or twice a year, pull everything together into one document. It does not need to be fancy. Just include:
Themes that stand out
Key colors
Motifs worth exploring
The mood you want to capture
A few collection ideas
This becomes your framework when you sit down to design.
8. Keep Checking In
Trends change in small ways throughout the year. Revisit your research every few months and notice what is gaining momentum and what feels like it is fading.
This keeps your work fresh without making you feel like you are constantly starting over.
Final Thoughts
Trend research is not necessarily about following the crowd; it is about understanding the world your artwork is stepping into and creating artwork within the sphere of what your auience wants to buy. When you approach it with curiosity and confidence, it becomes a steady source of inspiration and clarity. It helps you create collections that feel relevant but still reflect who you are as a designer.
