Inspiration

I like the idea of having a plain background with bright prints over the top. for some of my prints I want to keep the backgrounds white. I'm using a heavy cotton for my prints as I think the print looks more vibrant. Bluebell Gray is a textile design company who use bright floral patterns which look like watercolour on white backrounds.The contrast between the white background and the colours able the product to really be a focal point for any room. I feel that to create a good print I have to work layer by layer starting with a plain backround, this way i can see the potential for the print to be used on a larger scale.

 Maija Louekari is another example of bold designs on a simple background.The Scandinavian designer creates repeat patterns using motifs which look hand drawn.

I prefer a hand drawn affect for my motifs as it adds texture and more depth to the print. I also like the colours with the black lines.In my colour strip there is a lot of dark colours and hints of bright. I would like to work on a larger scale to create the prints as this would able me to use more colour which doesn't have to be squashed onto one small sample looking too over crowded.

Marimekko is another great example of this.Her work is very similar to Louekari's and they have collaborated to create prints which are equaly as lovely. The idea of having a plain backround makes me want to use minimal prints and not to over fill the fabric with busy designs. I like the simpleness of some of my motifs and i'd rather enhance them by using a colour range which go together well. I still want to layer some of my motifs but only slightly creating different shapes.

I love how the bold black lines work in contrast to the background and each one is easily seen. with no fuss the coloured image still works just as well by using a minimalistic colour palette. I can see how these prints could work well on interior based items whether it be as small as a tea towel or as curtains, as with my prints. On the mugs the simple red dot adds a colour burst which goes so well with the black hand drawn lines of the design.