Polka Dot Beetle
This surface pattern set is a response to an “Opulent Creepy Crawlies” trend, which explores the theme of insects and studies their ornate detailing. This often results in crafting these bugs into mirror imagery and kaleidoscopic arrangements.
This surface pattern is an independent ‘Karolful.Designs’ design and is available for purchase and/or licence through Adobe Stock. Please follow this LINK to view the entire “Entomology” collection.
Alternatively, please get in touch to discuss custom arrangements that suit your project’s needs.
Collection Overview
The set of surface patterns showcased here are part of a wider series called “Entomology” that encompasses a wider range of designs that depict six different species of beetle.
Overall, this series is unified by its colour palette, and the usage of the same techniques. Patterns within a given set depict a specific insect, exploring various colour-ways and arrangements. Each set also includes a standalone illustration of that species of beetle.
Colour Palette
The PANTONE TCX colours chosen here are inspired by palettes from Kidspattern. The two main base colours for this set of surface patterns are both shades of yellow: a radiant ‘Aspen Gold’ and a warm ‘Golden Rod’. These are meant to evoke the opulence of golden scarabs from ancient Egypt.
To provide a contrasting counterweight a ‘Jet Set’ black was aded. Lastly, to round out the palette a sage green shade was picked, ‘Chinois Green’. This last addition offers a flavourful modern twist.
Inspiration
Insects have wide range of impacts on the planet’s ecosystem. Due to this important role in our lives, iconography that depicts them has become thoroughly embedded in human culture, from arts and crafts to mythology and religion.
The beetle represents hard work, devotion, persistence, as well as cooperation and solidarity.Many insects are valued simply for their beauty. Insect imagery is commonly celebrated in jewellery, textiles, and ceramics.
Elements Development
The depiction of the insects was stylised to highlight their decorative aspects. The original elements were fully vectorised and use a total of 4 colours. However, they can also be easily simplified into 2 colour versions. In this set you can select a version that best suits your project.
A full illustrations set is available to licence HERE.
Set Development
I selected each colour from the palette as a background and then developed a corresponding arrangement. Together, these surface patterns create a matching set that can be used across a plethora of potential products whilst retaining a consistent look. This beetle collection is ready to go and easy to use.
In this surface pattern the beetles are scattered around in a regular repeat with small dots peppered amongst them. As the elements partially blend in with the gold background, this monochromatic supporting print uses the total of only 2 Pantones.
Click HERE to licence this design.
Here, the beetles are simplified and recoloured in only 2 Pantones. They sink into the light yellow background and form a kaleidoscopic mosaic, producing a rich and decorative texture.
Click HERE to licence this design.
Dotted White Background
This surface pattern has the beetles arranged close together, forming a triangular shape. They are repeated regularly with small yellow dots scattered amongst them. Their antennas link up forming a hexagonal shape which gives this design a distinct focal point.
Here the elements employ the full scope of the colour palette making this a great option for a rich hero print. The white of the background offers a contrast that makes the insects really stand out, highlighting their decorative aspects.
Click HERE to licence this design.
In this pattern version the gold beetles are arranged tightly together, facing each other in a vertical repeat. Their decorative carapaces form a mesmerising abstract texture. Placed atop a sage green background, this decorative surface print uses a total of 3 Pantones.
Click HERE to licence this design.
This surface pattern design takes advantage of the full breadth of the 4 Pantone colour palette. As a result, the details of the beetle’s ornamental carapace really pop out of the silky black background. The colourful beetles are arranged diagonally and repeated regularly forming a rhombus shape.
Click HERE to licence this design.
Horizontal Stripes
In this bright surface pattern the beetles are arranged upwards in a horizontal line. They are positioned closely next to one another and repeated in a brick manner. Their antennae form a semi-circular link between them. This composition would make a great option for a secondary print and also translate well into a banner or a border decor.
Placed atop a fresh, white background, this ornamental surface print uses a total of 3 Pantones.
Click HERE to licence this design.
Lastly, this set rounded out with a selection of basic, simplified surface patterns that use only the silhouettes of the beetle element. These are easy to recolour and great for using in smaller sizes. For example, as a supporting or background print.
Click HERE to licence the set of these 5 designs.
“In my youth, I spent my time investigating insects.”
