Doodling Simple Patterns – A Fun Way to Warm Up and Add Layers

 Welcome back to our I Love Doodling series! Now we’re diving into one of the most exciting parts of doodling – creating simple patterns. Patterns are a fantastic way to explore your creativity, and they’re surprisingly easy to make by just repeating basic shapes. Whether you’re warming up for a drawing session or looking to add layers to your art journals and paintings, doodling patterns is a playful way to enhance your work.

Getting Started: Boxes and Shapes

To begin, draw a bunch of boxes across your page. These boxes will serve as the “canvas” for each unique pattern. With a variety of boxes, you’ll have space to experiment with different shapes, styles, and layouts. This approach is especially helpful as a warm-up exercise because it loosens up your hand, sharpens your focus, and gets your creativity flowing.

Filling Each Box with Patterns

Once you’ve drawn your boxes, it’s time to start filling them in! Here are a few pattern ideas to get you started:

• Circles
  Fill a box with small circles, evenly spaced or layered on top of each other for a bubble effect. You can even experiment with sizes, combining large and small circles to add more visual interest.

• Triangles
  Draw rows of triangles to create a zigzag or chevron pattern. Alternate between upright and inverted triangles, or change the size for a playful, dynamic look.

• Wavy Lines
  Draw a wavy line across the box, then add more lines parallel to it. This creates a ripple effect, which adds movement and flow to the pattern.

• Dots and Dashes
  Combine small dots with dashes or short lines to create a simple yet engaging pattern. This design is perfect for filling in smaller areas without overpowering your page.

• Grid of Squares
  Draw tiny squares in rows, creating a grid pattern within the box. It’s a simple and organized way to add structure to your page.

Experimenting with Pattern Layers

Once you’re comfortable with basic patterns, try layering them. You could add dots over a wave pattern or combine circles and triangles for a more complex look. Patterns are a great way to add layers and depth to your artwork, enhancing the overall composition and giving it a more textured, intricate feel.

Using Patterns Beyond the Page

Patterns aren’t just for warm-ups – they’re also a fantastic way to add layers to your drawings, art journals, and paintings. Use them as backgrounds, borders, or to fill in objects. They bring a sense of rhythm and energy, and they’re a wonderful way to personalize your work.

Try It Yourself: Pattern Warm-Up

Challenge yourself to fill a page with boxes and fill each one with a unique pattern. See how many different designs you can create and explore mixing shapes, lines, and even colors. You’ll be amazed at how quickly your page comes to life!

Happy doodling, and don’t forget to share your patterned pages with us at the Doodle Institute. We’d love to see the unique designs you create!