Curious to learn more about three-dimensional surface pattern design?

Read my thesis (unfortunately available only in Finnish):

ABSTRACT: 3D surface pattern design is to create surface patterns with three-dimensional qualities. The topic was discussed in this thesis from the perspective of product design. The thesis was carried out as practice-based research, where the theoretical knowledge was illustrated through several freelance design assignments. The primary focus of the work was technical and production-oriented: how to make three-dimensional surface patterns suitable for production.

The aim was to package experiential knowledge together with literature from various fields since no previous studies were found on the subject. First, basic elements of repeating pattern and surface design were reviewed. Then different forms of three-dimensionality were discussed as far as applicable to surface pattern design, including material-based and manufacturing methods, as well as fundamentals of 3D design.

As the design assignments materialized, it was observed that the design process diversified significantly based on the intended use of the pattern. When three-dimensionality arises from the material, designers needed knowledge primarily about the possibilities and limitations of different fabrication processes. When three-dimensionality was explicitly the result of 3D design, the mastery of this was essential. On the other hand, 3D tools can be used solely for artistic and content expression.

Since the goal of the thesis was to familiarize the reader with 3D surface pattern design from various perspectives, the final chapter took a broader look at the field of surface pattern design, as well as the possibilities and challenges of 3D design.