Sophie Honeybelle is a UK based surface pattern designer, working from her own eponymous design studio based in Buckinghamshire. Sophie is passionate about her work and loves nothing more than designing patterns at her computer and working in her studio with pens and paint. She designs patterns for everything from fabrics to gift wrapping, wallpaper and decals. Sophie also graduated from Falmouth College of Arts in 2002 with a BA Honours in Fine Art. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Sophie Honeybelle.
Image Sources: 1) ellacooley.com 2) alibenyondesigns.bigcartel.com 3) hannahturner.co.uk 4) oxx.me.uk 5) society6.com
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1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?
Clean and graphic; mid-century modern-ish; inspired by symmetry, 1950s colours, damask design and tessellation.
2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?
I do picture research, make some notes and then switch on either Photoshop or Illustrator and experiment.
3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?
I have a very good friend called Sean Tucker, who is wonderful to work with. He’s passionate, intelligent, funny, hard-working and he always comes up with great ideas. In recent years he’s been very good at introducing me to new work, ways of working, new tools and methods and he’s always on hand for business insights too. I admire his breadth of knowledge – from technical (he’s my tech support!) to the creative.
4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?
A trip out to London usually does the job, especially if I see an exhibition. Movies and music help a lot too. No idea why it works, I guess it floods my brain with interesting visuals.
5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
I took a course in how to become a pattern designer, as before I was a jewellery designer/maker. I’m now diversifying into illustration. If you want to be a surface pattern designer, check out the ABSPD e-course.
