This is the first thing you’ll want to consider when choosing a pattern type for your design. Patterns can be fun and playful, sleek and sophisticated, or just about anything you want them to be (multi-hyphenates!). They can also be used to make a statement or convey a particular message. Whatever effect you're going for, there's sure to be a pattern that will help you achieve it.

Patterns can come to life in a variety of ways:

• Through the actual pattern of a fabric or material.
• Through the partnership of how that pattern interacts with the chosen material (stripes on a cotton curtain or geometric shapes on a woven rug).
• The location of where that pattern shows up.

So when you’re ready to pick a pattern, ask yourself how all of these things will work together to express your creative vision best.