Pattern Fun

This is the second and final set of patterns from my daily painting challenge. Although I started it with the intention of getting into the habit of painting regularly, I am surprised at how much this process has taught me. I’ve had plenty of room to explore ideas and try variations of patterns and techniques. The first picture illustrates a lot of fancy rainbows, fluffy clouds, rain drops and tall skyscrapers. They helped the transition from structured geometric patterns to free flowing ones. The second picture is the result of reaching a point where I tried to paint anything that I set my eyes on – houseplants, tea cups and a lot of chocolates and ice cream. They are normal everyday objects at home that transformed into fun patterns. They are organic patterns aimed not at being perfect but at being able to give me the freedom to design them the way I liked. After all, there is no right or wrong in art!

Painting Patterns!

When I decided to start painting this year, I took up a daily painting challenge - A simple pattern painted in a few minutes every day. It was a very good learning experience, helping me practice with various shapes, color values, brush strokes with different brushes and acrylic paints. Looking forward to a new pattern everyday was truly fun! Structured patterns and free flowing ones were equally enjoyable. Lots of bright botanicals, fun veggies, structured doodles, geometric shapes and common daily use objects were used in the designs. I learnt many new pattern terminologies and it was inspirational to see the most basic shapes come together to form a beautiful pattern. This is the first set of colorful patterns from the series. 

The Basket Weave Scarf

Originally knitted for a friend, I fell in love with the texture of the scarf and gifted it to myself (Trust me, it is so lovely). When I was looking for scarf models, I chanced upon this repeat stitch pattern and really liked the finished look. As the basket weave stitch kept growing, I noticed the tight knit stiff woven feel of the scarf that really helps in keeping you warm in the windy days. And a bonus for this pattern is though it is not a reversible pattern both sides look equally good. So you can get two different looks with the same scarf. As I was nearing the end of this scarf the temperatures began to drop and we had a couple of heavy snow showers. You all know what that is...'A sign from the Universe' to give me a new scarf !! If you just know to knit and purl, you can knit one for yourself too! If you do not, drop in a comment and I will help you with it :)

Yarn Used : Bernat Burgundy

Knitting needles : US 10

The Summer Hat

Hats are always a great way to spruce up your look and stand out in a crowd. I was going on a vacation to the sunny state from the cold, snow filled weather that I live in. I knew I would want to spend most of my time there under the sun in the beaches. So amidst all the packing that had to be done, I sat down to crochet a hat for myself. It was all done in a few hours, shopping for the right yarn to the last stitch. I initially wore it plain and then decided to add some embellishments that made it even prettier. I love the fact that I can make any number of hats, in any shade and style I wish to. This pattern is easy for beginners and I like the wide brim that it has. They have a very practical use also - protect you from direct sunlight when all you want is to enjoy the beach sand and waters.

Yarn used : 

For hat: Lily Sugar n Cream - Summer Prints

For flower embellishment: Peaches & Creme - Bright Blue

Crochet Hook : H-8 (5 mm)