Want to create a trending Art Nouveau-inspired pattern on your iPad? In this tutorial, we’ll explore fluid whiplash curves, sketch motifs, and build a seamless repeat pattern in Procreate. This decorative, nature-inspired style is super-trending right now, making it a perfect addition to your portfolio! Plus, I’ll share my favorite Art Nouveau reference books to help you dive even deeper into this timeless aesthetic.
Watch the Tutorial
If you’re a see it on “paper” person, keep reading below. Otherwise, check out this quick video tutorial in my new iPad Art Break Series on Youtube:
The Steps
Step 1: Gather Inspiration & Sketch Your Motifs. Art Nouveau is known for its graceful curves and organic shapes. I used Art Nouveau: The Essential Reference as my inspiration, but you can also search for vintage wallpaper, textiles, or nature-inspired designs.
In Procreate: Open a 3000×3000 px canvas at 300 DPI. Turn on Drawing Guide > Edit Drawing Guide > Symmetry (Vertical). Use a sketching pencil to create flowing floral and leaf motifs. Tip: Emphasize movement by incorporating “whiplash” curves—long, swooping lines that reverse direction dramatically.
Step 2: Ink Your Design with a Block-Print Look. To mimic the traditional block-print feel of Art Nouveau, we’ll ink our design with a rough texture:
- Create a new layer and turn on Drawing Assist.
- Use the Rough Inking Worn Texture Brush (from the Everything Bagel set).
Outline and fill in your shapes, keeping each element separate like a carved woodblock print.
Tip: Leave a small gap between elements to enhance the block-print effect!
Step 3: Build Your Seamless Repeat.
- Group all your layers together and duplicate them.
- Move each copy into a corner of the canvas (turn on Snapping for precision).
- Fill in the center with additional motifs to complete the composition.
Tip: Use 2D Grid Guides to help align everything perfectly!
Step 4: Check for Seamless Flow.
- Export your pattern tile as a JPEG and re-import it into Procreate.
- Tile the design to ensure there are no awkward gaps or visual disruptions.
- Make adjustments as needed by adding small filler elements like vines or decorative swirls.
Pro Tip: Critique your pattern by drawing over problem areas with a bright color—this makes it easier to see where adjustments are needed!
Step 5: Explore Different Color Versions
- Select your background layer and use Color Fill to test different moods.
- Try bold, bright palettes for a playful feel or muted, moody colors for a vintage aesthetic.
- Save multiple versions—you never know which one might sell best!
Pro Tip: Art Nouveau color schemes often include earthy greens, deep blues, rich golds, and soft pastels.
What’s Next?
Now that you’ve created your first Art Nouveau pattern, it’s time to get it out into the world! Whether you want to sell it, license it, or just showcase your work, there are countless ways to share your designs. Not sure where to start? I put together a free guide packed with 100+ ways to share your art and creative skills, so you can turn your designs into real opportunities.
Want to go even deeper into Art Nouveau pattern design? Join my full Art Nouveau Patterns Class.
Art Nouveau in Pattern Class
- Master Art Nouveau patterns to add trending, fluid designs to your portfolio.
- Learn techniques like overlapping elements, S curves, and seamless pattern building for modern, licensable art.
