Meet Pattern Designer Nandita Singh

I recently came across a surface pattern designer, Nandita Singh, who does wonderful work. She’s based in India and is now selling her prints on Society6. Her patterns are gorgeous and I had to share them with you. But I wanted more than that, I wanted to get the inside scoop about Nandita, her work and her life. Luckily she agreed to answer a few questions. Here’s the scoop.

How did you get started as a pattern designer?

I loved to draw patterns and motifs for myself and my friends, but never thought to make it my career. I started from scratch in 2008, and didn’t knew how far I’d go with my desires to create my own designs. Later in years, noticing my passion in pattern designing my hubby and friends pushed me to pursue my dreams further. I then thought of giving it a try.  I didn’t knew the exact name for my passion, and in fact, I was new to this surface pattern design’ term. So, before entering into this creative industry I searched a lot about it. Then I saw this e-course The Art and Business of Surface Pattern Designs, UK. I got enrolled in this e course to get a more specific idea about surface pattern. And now there’s no turning back.

How do you create your patterns?

I love the old process of hand drawing and find it more appealing than using a computer. Yes, I do use computer programmes. But first I scan my drawings, and later on use photo editing softwares to give the final touch-ups and colouring.

Tell us about your work space.

My workplace is only a table, a really big one, that holds my laptop, my papers, pencils, and my Scanner. As I live in a small apartment, so my workplace is just a ‘cute’ corner of my bedroom! But honestly, my workplace changes from time to time — from balcony to kitchen counter tops… depending on my involvement (remember, I’m a full time be-at-home-mom too).

How long does it take for you to finish one design?

If I’m making something for my blog/portfolio then I take my time to experiment until I get the desired result. Likewise, while working on client’s briefs I like to give my 100%. And unless I’m satisfied with the final output, I don’t send the designs to my client. l try not to overload myself with work. For me ”LESS IS MORE”  when it comes to designing.

Where do you find your inspiration?

Big Question. Inspiration is everywhere, from kitchen utensils to the nature surrounding us. And in India, you’ll find it scattered all over. Watching trends, what’s in-what’s out. But in all these I don’t leave my own personal touch. I feel comfortable with Indian art and architecture, the decorative and detailed works in the old Mughal paintings, on the walls of ancient temples, Ajanta caves, forts of Rajasthan …, the list is endless! I think one should take inspiration from everything he/she sees, be it your favourite designer/fashion shows/Pinterest…  But remember not to copy others’ works and spoil your own creativity. Creativity is a natural gift given to us, so ”use it abundantly and flaunt it wildly” !!!  When I need some more inspiration, I simply shut down my Internet connections and move away from my desk !

How do you spend a typical day?

I’m a ‘be-at-home-mom’, and a ‘work-from-home-mom’… After spending a good 11 years as a typical home maker, my life switched over to a career woman.  So, you can understand that apart from all the cooking-cleaning chores, ( not to forget the endless snack time of my two cutie daughters’), I manage out some real me time—’my drawing time’. As I’m a self taught artist, so I try my best to keep on creating more and more designs, learning each day from wherever, and whomsoever.

What are your 3 guilty pleasures?

Chocolates, Arnie’s ( Arnold Schwarzenegger) movies, and listening to music in a really loud volume !

What’s the one thing you can’t live without?

My family, of course. My hubby and daughters are the greatest critic of my work. But, apart from them, a laptop with Internet connection, too…Somebody truly said,”Life was much easier before Apple, Blackberry……was invented”.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Nandita! For more of Nandita visit her blog and her shop on Society6.