New
New
Surface pattern
I can explore surface pattern by designing a motif and experimenting with scale to create repeat patterns.
Lesson 8 of 9
New
New
- Year 10
Surface pattern
I can explore surface pattern by designing a motif and experimenting with scale to create repeat patterns.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Repeat patterns create a sense of rhythm and continuity, making the fabric visually appealing and harmonious.
- Designers often scale the motif up or down to change its size and add variety in a repeat pattern.
- Many textile traditions repeat patterns, allowing artists to connect their work to cultural heritage.
Keywords
Surface pattern - decorative designs applied to the surface of materials like fabric, paper, or ceramics
Repeat - a design that is copied and arranged over and over to cover a surface
Scale - the size of a design or motif in relation to its surface or surrounding space
Common misconception
Surface pattern decoration is only used in textiles.
Surface pattern can be applied to many materials, including ceramics, wallpaper, furniture, and architecture.
This project can work well if you have a photocopier or printer in the classroom or near the classroom so that pupilss can photcopy their work once they are ready.
Teacher tip
Equipment
Photocopier, printer, pencil, fine liner pen, white copier paper, glue sticks.
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the terms to the best definition:
Match the terms to the best definition:
Q2.Which of the following is an example of surface pattern in everyday life?
Which of the following is an example of surface pattern in everyday life?
A plain white wall
A painting in a gallery
A blank piece of paper
Q3.What is a motif in surface pattern design?
What is a motif in surface pattern design?
A type of fabric used in textiles
A type of drawing tool
A colour scheme
Q4.What is a repeat pattern?
What is a repeat pattern?
A pattern created by layering different materials
A design drawn once and never used again
A large painting made of multiple images
Q5.Select three reasons designers experiment with the scale of a motif.
Select three reasons designers experiment with the scale of a motif.
To make the motif harder to see
Q6.What is the benefit of using a photocopier when working with repeat patterns?
What is the benefit of using a photocopier when working with repeat patterns?
It lets you copy colour perfectly
It prints 3D models
It draws the motif for you
