One of the hottest printing trends this year has been using nature-inspired designs and incorporating natural and organic patterns into designs and logos. It seems like everywhere you look, examples of natural design are sprouting up all over the place.
The vast number of different elements that can be used can, however, be very overwhelming. So here is a helpful guide to help you; find your way through organic patterns and natural designs.
Think about shape:
The most obvious place to start is with a shape. Nature is full of unique and visually dynamic forms. Shapes make up the natural world and help to define our place in it.
Think about texture:
Nature, however, is more than just shapes. Texture patterns are another great way to incorporate natural design into your projects.
Spirals:
One of the oldest recognizes patterns, spirals are everywhere from huge varieties displayed in the plant kingdom to animals like the cone snail or bighorn ram. They create a sense of motion and can help in directing the viewer’s gaze.
Branching forms:
Another common yet amazing pattern is the branching lines, these are found in trees, lighting, veins, and cracks. Also known as Lichtenberg figure; the use of this fractal patterns can create a powerful sense of harmony or disharmony, depending on how it’s used.
Clouds:
Being a very ubiquitous form the use of clouds can create a dynamic and organic background to any image. A Pattern of true chaos, clouds, billows, and wisps are very free-flowing and give a sense of freedom and comfort.
Waves and dunes:
Created by disturbances in a medium, waves and sand dunes can be used to create motion or frame a focal point. Closely related to spirals, the arcs and crescents are fluid forms that help create a sense of calm.
Land formations:
The use of mountains and landscapes is a good way to bring a down to earth look to your printing designs. Using close well-known formations is also a great way to show that you are local to your clientele.
In the end, the best way to obtain an organic look to your designs is to be open to nature. As one of the most famous natural photographers, Ansel Adams once said: “I believe the world is incomprehensibly beautiful, an endless prospect of magic and wonder.”
