In this guide, I’ll show you how to design a beautiful coquette nursery using wallpaper, home decor and fabric that feels both elegant and playful using my beautiful designs.

1. Start with a Statement Wallpaper

The easiest way to set the tone is with a soft bow wallpaper. A repeating ribbon or trellis pattern creates structure while still feeling light and feminine.

👉 Shop bow wallpaper:

2. Add Soft Textiles with Coordinating Fabric

Layering fabric is what makes the room feel cozy and complete. Use smaller-scale bow prints for:

• baby clothes
• quilts
• curtains
• cushions

👉 Shop coordinating bow fabrics:

Mixing scale (large + small bows) adds visual interest without overwhelming the space.

3. Add Depth with Pattern Scale

Instead of introducing different styles, create variation by adjusting the scale of your bow designs.

For example:

• large bows → wallpaper
• medium bows → bedding
• small bows → accessories

👉 Explore scale variations:

This approach keeps everything cohesive while making the space feel thoughtfully designed.

4. Use Fabric for Soft Furnishings

One of the easiest ways to elevate a nursery is through custom soft furnishings. Using matching bow fabric across different elements creates a polished, designer look.

Use your fabric for:

• curtains
• crib skirts
• cushions
• changing table covers

👉 Shop versatile bow fabrics:

5. Keep the Color Palette Soft

Stick to:

• blush pink
• cream
• soft white
• soft neutral tones

This keeps everything cohesive and calming — perfect for a nursery.

6. Think in “Layers,” Not Pieces

Instead of decorating item-by-item, think in layers:

• wallpaper (base)
• fabric (texture)
• decor (finishing touch)

This approach creates a designer-level look without needing a huge budget.

Final Thoughts

A coquette nursery is all about softness, femininity, and timeless charm. By combining bow patterns, delicate florals, and layered textiles, you can create a space that feels both beautiful and comforting.

Whether you’re sewing your own pieces or decorating with wallpaper, these designs are made to mix, match, and evolve with your space.

The gentle rhythm of waves, the soft crunch of sand beneath your feet, and the endless horizon stretching quietly into the distance — it all creates a sense of calm that feels increasingly rare in our busy, always-connected world.

This feeling is at the heart of Calm, a coastal-inspired Spoonflower collection designed to bring a sense of peace and relaxation into your home through thoughtfully designed fabric, home decor items and wallpaper.

A Calm Coastal Colour Palette Inspired by the Sea

At the core of this collection is a soft, harmonious coastal colour palette inspired by the natural tones of the ocean and shoreline. Using timeless Benjamin Moore colours, each shade was selected to reflect light, air, and water — creating a palette that feels both fresh and grounding.

• Chantilly Lace (OC-65) — a soft, airy white reminiscent of sea foam and morning light
• Seapearl (OC-19) — a warm sandy neutral inspired by shells and sun-bleached shores
• Lake Placid (827) — a misty blue echoing distant ocean views
• Jet Stream (814) — a breezy sky blue reflecting clear coastal skies
• Sapphire Ice (808) — a cool mid-tone blue capturing shifting sea tones
• Denim Wash (838) — a relaxed blue-grey with a casual, lived-in coastal feel
• Kensington Blue (840) — a deep ocean blue that adds contrast and depth

This blend of soft blues and neutrals makes it easy to create a cohesive coastal interior, whether you’re styling a bedroom, living room, bathroom or nursery.

Inspired by Hervey Bay’s Coastal Beauty

This beach-inspired fabric, home decor and wallpaper collection was born from a summer holiday in Hervey Bay in sunny Queensland Australia, known for its long, uninterrupted coastlines and peaceful atmosphere.

Days were spent walking along the shoreline, collecting shells, and breathing in the salty air. These simple, grounding moments became the inspiration behind Calm — a collection designed to reflect the quiet beauty of coastal living.

Coastal Patterns for Fabric and Wallpaper

The Calm Spoonflower collection features a range of versatile coastal patterns that work beautifully across fabric, wallpaper, and home décor projects:

• Clam Shells — inspired by beachcombing and seaside treasures
• Waves and Sand Ripples — soft, flowing designs that bring movement and rhythm
• Coral Branches — organic patterns adding texture and interest
• Stripes — timeless coastal stripes for a classic look
• Sea Urchins — delicate motifs inspired by ocean life

These designs are intentionally simple and repeatable, making them perfect for creating a layered coastal look in your home.

How to Style a Calm Coastal Interior

If you’re looking to create a calm coastal home, this collection makes it easy:

• Pair soft blue fabrics with neutral furnishings for a light, airy feel
• Use coastal wallpaper to create a feature wall in a bedroom or living space
• Mix stripes with organic patterns like shells and coral for visual balance
• Layer different shades of blue to reflect the natural depth of the ocean

The cohesive palette allows you to mix and match patterns without overwhelming your space.

Designing for Calm in a Busy World

In a world filled with constant notifications and noise, creating a calm home environment has never been more important. This collection was designed as a gentle escape — a way to bring the peaceful feeling of the coast into everyday life.

Whether you’re redecorating a room or adding small textile accents, these beach-inspired designs help create a space that feels relaxed, grounded, and effortlessly serene. Check out my Spoonflower Collection for more Inspo!

Bring Coastal Calm Into Your Home

The beauty of a well-balanced coastal colour palette is its versatility. With soft blues, sandy neutrals, and timeless patterns, the Calm collection is designed to work seamlessly across interiors.

If you’re drawn to coastal style, beach-inspired décor, or simply want to create a more relaxing home, this collection offers a simple way to do just that.

Because sometimes, the most powerful design choice you can make… is calm.

In March 2022, I made a decision that changed everything.

After spending a couple years investing in my surface pattern design and watercolor skills, I took some time to figure out my next steps. Do I go down the route of art licensing or pursue another print-on-demand (POD)? This is when I decided to take the POD Spoonflower seriously.

Not casually. Not “let’s see what happens.” Seriously.

I committed to giving it three full years. I would show up consistently. I would build systems. I would learn the platform.

That commitment made all the difference.

So How Does Spoonflower Work?

Spoonflower is a POD where you can make royalties uploading your surface pattern designs which are sold as products including wallpaper, fabric and home decor items.

From the Spoonflower website directly,

• Earn 10% — commission on every product from fabric and wallpaper to home decor
• Earn 11% — (1% bonus) if your monthly commissions were $300 to $999
• Earn 13% — (3% bonus) if your monthly commissions were $1,000 to $1,499
• Earn 15% — (5% bonus) if your monthly commissions were $1500+

Year One: The First 1% Bonus

After a year of consistent effort, I hit my first 1% bonus month. This is on top of the standard 10% royalties. It wasn’t flashy. It wasn’t viral. But it was validation.

It told me my designs resonated.

It told me the system was working.

It told me consistency mattered more than motivation.

For surface designers, that first 1% is proof. Proof that your shop is gaining traction. Proof that customers are finding you.

Slow Growth Is Still Growth

The numbers didn’t explode overnight. They climbed slowly. Month by month. There were months were the numbers waned and double crept in — was it just luck? I shook that off and focused on the systems I built.

In June 2024, I began consistently earning over the 1% bonus every single month. I even came close to 3% several times. But I kept refining. I kept improving. I kept showing up.

February 2026: The Breakthrough

Then in February 2026, something incredible happened.

I didn’t reach 3%.

I skipped it entirely and went straight to 5%. The highest commission level!

After years of work, consistency, testing, learning, improving…5%.

I was shocked. Grateful. Proud. And yes, a little surprised at how much emotional weight it carried.

The Truth Surface Designers Need to Hear

I’ve seen incredibly talented designers struggle on Spoonflower.

Some started when I did and still haven’t reached 1%. Others have unpredictable, inconsistent sales.

Here’s what I’ve learned:

• Spoonflower rewards strategy and persistence just as much as creativity.
• Talent alone is not enough.

Success on this platform comes from:

• Consistency
• Systems
• Market awareness
• Collection building
• Intentional keywording
• Long-term commitment

This is a long game.

What Changed Everything for Me

The breakthrough didn’t come from one viral design. Trends and popular designs come and go.

The breakthrough came from processes.

I stopped uploading randomly.

I stopped guessing.

I stopped relying on inspiration alone.

Instead, I:

• Built cohesive collections
• Designed with specific niches in mind
• Studied what was selling
• Improved my SEO intentionally
• Uploaded consistently

That’s when growth compounded.

If You’re Serious About Succeeding on Spoonflower…

If you’re serious about succeeding, here’s what I want you to know:

1. It will take longer than you think.
2. Your first year is data collection.
3. Consistency compounds.
4. Small wins matter.
5. Systems beat motivation.
6. Comparison will drain you.
7. Persistence wins.

Last year, I created a guide outlining exactly how I built my shop and what I implemented to grow steadily. Find out more here.

Because success on Spoonflower isn’t magic.

It’s persistence.

It’s grit.

It’s showing up when the sales are slow.

It’s improving when no one is watching.

The 5% Bonus Wasn’t the Goal

The 5% bonus was never really the goal.

The goal was proving to myself that I could commit long enough to see real results.

And now I know:

Surface pattern design on Spoonflower can become something meaningful — if you’re willing to treat it like a long game.

If you’re at 0%, keep going.

If you’re hovering at 1%, refine and stay consistent.

If you’re close to 3%, don’t stop now.

The breakthrough might not look how you expect. Mine skipped a level entirely. And yours might too.

Want to find out more about my systems and processes I put in place and how I built my shop? Click on this link to find out more.

Are you thinking about wallpaper for your next design project?

Whether you’re working with a client or doing your own space, choosing wallpaper isn’t just about picking a pretty pattern — it’s about understanding what type of wallpaper is right for your space so you don’t end up disappointed after installation.

I recently had a client contact me after making the switch to pre-pasted from peel and stick in the same design and finding the colours were wildly different. Same design — totally different result! That’s because substrates affect how colour looks on the wall, and knowing which one to choose is a crucial part of the wallpaper buying decision.

In this guide, I’ll break down why this matters and give you 5 expert tips for purchasing wallpaper like a pro.

Why Substrate Matters (and Why You Should Order Samples)

Every wallpaper substrate interacts with colour differently. Some materials absorb ink more deeply, others reflect light uniquely, and some materials even have their own underlying colour — like natural grasscloth’s warmer, more yellow tone.

These differences can make the same design look totally different when printed on a different material. That’s why ordering samples before you commit is one of the best decisions you can make — it prevents big surprises once your wallpaper is installed.

Tip: Choose the Right Substrate for the Room

Not all wallpaper is created equal — and picking the best type for your room will make a huge difference in performance and satisfaction.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common Spoonflower wallpaper substrates to help guide you:

Peel & Stick Wallpaper (Removable & DIY-Friendly)

Best for: Rentals, short-term décor, low-moisture areas

Why it’s great: Self-adhesive backing makes installation easy and removal hassle-free. Great if you want flexibility or plan to change the look next year.

Keep in mind: It works best on smooth, flat walls and is generally suited for low-to-moderate traffic spaces.

Pre-Pasted Wallpaper (Water-Activated & Easy to Install)

Best for: Homes, apartments, and beginners

Why it’s great: Comes with adhesive already applied — just activate with water. Easier to reposition during installation than peel & stick, and great for DIYers.

Keep in mind: Suitable for most residential walls but less ideal for high moisture areas unless properly sealed.

Non-Pasted (Traditional) Wallpaper

Best for: High-traffic areas and long-term installations

Why it’s great: Type II commercial grade with excellent durability and resistance to wear, moisture, and cleaning. Works well on textured surfaces sometimes unsuitable for self-adhesive papers.

Keep in mind: Requires wallpaper paste and professional or experienced installation.

Grasscloth Wallpaper (Natural Texture, High Style)

Best for: Accent walls, low-traffic areas

Why it’s great: Handwoven natural fibres give unmatched texture and warmth — perfect for dining rooms, studies, and design-forward spaces.

Keep in mind: Natural fibres mean some variation and a more delicate material that typically needs professional installation.

Metallic Wallpapers (Gold & Silver)

Best for: Luxe spaces like feature walls, formal dining rooms

Why it’s great: Adds light-catching depth and a premium finish.

Keep in mind: Usually installed by a pro due to the delicate nature of the material.

Choosing the correct substrate based on location, traffic, surface texture, and durability needs will prevent costly mistakes and ensure the final look matches expectations.

5 Expert Tips for Purchasing Wallpaper

Here are five practical tips to help you make the best wallpaper decisions — whether for clients or your own projects:

1. Order Samples (Always!)

Colours and textures vary widely between screens and in-room lighting. Seeing a physical swatch in your space ensures confidence before investing.

2. Understand Your Space Before You Buy

Is it a bathroom? A dining room? A rental? Each space has different moisture, traffic, and longevity requirements — and that affects the best wallpaper choice.

3. Know That Colour Shifts Between Substrates

Even the same design printed on a different material may look different in hue or depth. This makes testing and material awareness essential.

4. Order All Wallpaper in One Batch

Because Spoonflower mix colours per order, re-ordering later can result in subtle colour variation between batches — which may become noticeable mid-wall.

5. Consider Lighting & Wall Prep

Light changes colour perception dramatically. Always view samples at different times of day and make sure walls are properly primed and smooth before installation.

Final Thoughts

Wallpaper is one of the most impactful design elements you can add — but it’s not just about pattern selection. Material, colour accuracy, installation method, and space usage all play into whether the final result will feel as good as it looks online.

By knowing your substrates, testing intelligently, and ordering wisely, you can avoid costly missteps and deliver beautiful results that both you and your clients will love.

Are you ready to take the next steps? Check out my wallpaper designs on Spoonflower!

As a surface designer, stripes are one of the patterns I add to many of my collections — not only for their timeless appeal, but for their ability to shape space, add rhythm, and bring quiet confidence to an interior.

From celebrity homes to trend forecasts, stripes are everywhere right now — and from a design-making perspective, it’s easy to see why.

Why Stripes Are Trending in 2026

In interior design, patterns move in cycles — but stripes have a way of re-emerging with renewed relevance. In 2026, there’s a growing appetite for pattern again — just not in an overly bold or chaotic way.

Stripes offer the perfect balance. They’re graphic but familiar, expressive yet controlled. Trend forecasts point to stripes as a key motif this year, particularly designs that feel softer, more tonal, and more artisanalthan the high-contrast stripes of the past.

From my perspective as a surface designer, this shift reflects a broader move toward patterns that feel human and considered, in particular in the AI era. Stripes today aren’t about perfection — they’re about proportion, texture, and how a design lives on the wall long-term.

They’re also incredibly smart design tools. Depending on their scale, direction, and colour, stripes can visually lift ceilings, widen narrow spaces, or add subtle movement — all without overwhelming a room.

Different Types of Stripes

Striped wallpaper and home decor items are far from one-size-fits-all. Each stripe style serves a different purpose, both visually and emotionally. These are the key types I see shaping interiors in 2026 — and why they work.

Textured & Artisanal Stripes

One of the most defining stripe trends of 2026 is the move toward hand-drawn and irregular lines. These stripes feel organic rather than mechanical, bringing warmth and character to a space.

From a surface design standpoint, artisanal stripes allow for far more expression than perfectly uniform lines. Subtle variations in line weight and spacing introduce rhythm, making the pattern feel alive on the wall rather than static. With my designs, I love using watercolours to achieve this effect.

These designs work beautifully across larger areas, as the softness prevents visual fatigue. Paired with different aesthetics, they truly uplift a room while perfectly reinforcing its overall theme.

Product Spotlights with English Cottage Aesthetic

Product Spotlight with French Provencal Farmhouse Aesthetic

Product Spotlight with Nautical / Coastal Aesthetic

Product Spotlights with Grandmillennial Aesthetic

Vertical Stripes

Vertical stripes remain a classic choice, and for good reason. They draw the eye upward, creating a sense of height and elegance — particularly useful in rooms with lower ceilings or compact proportions.

In 2026, I’m seeing a strong preference for tone-on-tone vertical stripes and hand drawn textures, where contrast is gentle and refined. These designs feel light, architectural, and timeless, sitting comfortably within both modern and traditional interiors.

Product spotlight with Painterly Stripes

Product spotlight with Pink & White Stripes on Watercolor texture

Horizontal Stripes

Horizontal stripes shift the perception of space, making rooms feel wider and more relaxed. When designed thoughtfully, they bring a calm sense of openness rather than visual noise.

They’re particularly effective in hallways, living areas, and feature walls where proportion plays a key role along with home decor items.

Product spotlight with recently purchased curtains by one of my clients

Product Spotlight with Nautical / Coastal Aesthetic

Pinstripes

Pinstripes are all about subtlety. With very fine lines and minimal contrast, they act almost like a texture rather than a pattern. For my pinstripes design, I love adding an artisan take including additional motifs and hand drawn lines.

These designs are some of the most versatile to work with — ideal for spaces where you want depth and detail without distraction. From a design perspective, pinstripes are a quiet luxury: timeless, elegant, and easy to live with.

Product spotlight with Australian Aesthetic

Product Spotlight with French Provencal Farmhouse Aesthetic

Chevron Stripes

Chevron stripes introduce movement and direction, adding energy and visual intrigue. Unlike traditional stripes, they create a focal point through geometry rather than scale or colour.

Because of their dynamic nature, chevrons work best when used intentionally — as feature walls, alcoves, or moments where you want the pattern to lead the eye.

Product spotlight with recently purchased wallpaper by one of my clients

Product spotlight with Coastal Grandmother Aesthetic

Designing With Stripes: How They Live in a Space

When designing striped wallpaper, I’m always thinking about how the pattern will live in a real home — not just how it looks on a sample.

• Create focal points: Stripes work beautifully behind beds, sofas, and dining areas, grounding the room.
• Consider scale carefully: Narrow stripes feel classic and understated, while wider bands make a confident statement.
• Let colour do the work: Soft blues, greens, and neutrals create calm, nature-inspired interiors; higher contrast palettes deliver graphic impact.
• Use them throughout the home: Stripes add elegance to bedrooms, structure to hallways, and depth to bathrooms and living spaces.

Their adaptability is one of the reasons I consider stripes such a reliable design choice.

Why Designers Continue to Choose Stripes in 2026

Graphic patterns like stripes are no longer a nostalgic reference — they’ve become a contemporary design language. In 2026, stripes are evolving through softer palettes, gentler contrasts, and artisanal interpretations that make them easier to live with than ever before.

For interior designers and surface designers alike, stripes offer structure without rigidity and personality without excess — a rare balance in pattern design.

My Process: Creating Stripes That Feel Effortless

At first glance, a hand-drawn stripe might look simple — but in reality, stripes are one of the most challenging patterns to design well.

When I create a collection, hand-drawn stripes often take longer to perfect than a hero pattern — because there’s nowhere to hide. Every line, gap, and colour choice matters.

Unlike digitally generated stripes, artisan stripes rely on controlled imperfection. I create mine using watercolor then edited digitally to join the lines. Each line must feel natural, not sloppy; organic, not accidental. I begin with hand-drawn or painted originals, then carefully refine them digitally — preserving the human quality while ensuring the pattern works technically in repeat.

The process involves countless adjustments:

• Lines that are too even lose their character
• Lines that are too irregular feel unbalanced
• Spacing must feel rhythmic, not random
• Colour density must stay consistent while still showing movement

This slow, considered approach is exactly what gives artisan and hand drawn stripes their depth. They carry the marks of the human hand — something that feels increasingly meaningful in 2026 interiors.

Final Thoughts

In 2026, stripes have evolved beyond stripes. For me as a surface designer, they’re not just patterns — they’re architectural tools, artistic statements, and carefully crafted designs that shape how a room feels.

Whether used subtly or boldly, stripes have a unique ability to bring structure, warmth, and personality to a space — proving that some of the simplest ideas, when designed with care, can be the most powerful.

The growing movement toward biophilic design reflects a deep desire to reconnect with nature inside our homes. Rooted in the belief that natural elements improve wellbeing, this design philosophy encourages interiors that feel calming, grounded, and alive.

My Spoonflower collection, Biophilic Beauty, was created specifically for home décor and wallpaper, drawing inspiration from the timeless elegance of a sun-filled conservatory. Through botanical motifs, structured greenery, and architectural patterning, this collection invites the outdoors in — creating spaces that feel serene, balanced, and intentional.

A Nature-Driven Colour Palette

Colour plays a vital role in all my collections. This collection is grounded in a palette designed to feel both restorative and refined with different hues of green and brown representing nature.

Central to the story is Benjamin Moore’s 2026 Colour of the Year, Silhouette (AF-655) — a warm, sophisticated charcoal brown that anchors the entire collection.

The full colour palette includes:

• AF-655 Silhouette — Deep charcoal brown with subtle warm undertones
• OC-45 Swiss Coffee — A soft, creamy off-white with gentle warm undertones
• 048 Southwest Pottery — A rich, earthy terracotta inspired by sunbaked clay
• 1054 Sherwood Tan — A classic medium tan with warm, golden undertones
• HC-121 Peale Green — A refined, historical green with gray undertones
• CSP-870 Green Thumb — A fresh, lively green inspired by garden foliage
• CC-600 Mossy Oak — A deep, organic green with earthy brown undertones
• HC-116 Guilford Green — A balanced, muted green with soft gray undertones

Together these colours are ideal for wallpapers that feel immersive and home decor items that bring warmth and depth to a room.

Inspired by the Conservatory

At the heart of Biophilic Beauty concept is the conservatory — a space where cultivated nature meets architecture. To create this, I used my lovely watercolours. Here are some behind the scene pics!

The collection features:

• Pear espalier patterns, symbolizing thoughtful growth and tradition

• Topiary-inspired designs, sculptural and rhythmic in form

• Vibrant florals, bringing life and movement to walls and soft furnishings

• Geometric tile patterns, referencing classic conservatory floors

These patterns work beautifully across wallpaper, drapery, cushions, upholstery, and accent pieces, making them versatile for layered, nature-inspired interiors.

Designed for Biophilic Living

Biophilic design isn’t about overwhelming a space with greenery — it’s about subtle connection. Pattern, repetition, and organic geometry all play a role in creating interiors that support calm and comfort.

Biophilic Beauty was intentionally designed for:

• Wallpaper that transforms rooms into tranquil retreats

• Home décor textiles that layer texture and softness

• Spaces seeking a balance of structure and organic flow

Whether used as a statement wall, a coordinating fabric, or a full room scheme, these designs encourage a slower, more grounded way of living.

A Timeless Approach to Nature-Inspired Interiors

With Biophilic Beauty, I wanted to create more than a trend-driven collection. This is a timeless interpretation of nature — one that fits seamlessly into classic, modern, and transitional homes alike.

Through thoughtful pattern design and a carefully curated palette, this collection offers an invitation:

• to pause
• to breathe, and
• to bring the beauty of the natural world into everyday living.

Explore the Biophilic Beauty collection on Spoonflower and discover how biophilic design can transform your home through wallpaper and home décor.

2025 has been a remarkable year for design across homes, technology and creative industries. From home interiors to accelerated AI adoption, both professionals and trendseekers are redefining how we live, work, and create. Below, I break down my observations of the standout trends shaping the year.

Colour of the Year

A big bombshell with Pantone announcing a white called Cloud Dancer as their colour of the year. It stirred much controversy and opinions on the net where everyone was talking about it! In the meantime, Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore leanded into the browns and WGSN selected teal as their colour of the year. I wrote a blog on Pantone’s Colour of the Year, read more about it here!

Trends in Home Interiors

In home interiors, there is a move towards warmer decor in particular browns. This trend has been in the process for a while as we slowly wave good bye to the ‘greys’. Last year, Pantone announced Mocha Mousse brown as their 2025 colour of the year. This colour was very warm and rich brown. This year both Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore have announced their 2026 colour of the year as a shade of brown albeit Sherwin William has moved to a light brown colour — Universal Khaki — a mid-tone beige with subtle green undertones while Benjamin Moore has moved to a dark brown colour — Silhouette — a blend of rich espresso and burnt umber with refined charcoal notes.

The trend on bringing the outdoors in still continues with an emphasis on earthy rich colours and warm neutrals along with evergreen components such as florals and greenery. With this, there is the introduction of the new word ‘biophilic’. This means using design to strengthen the connection between people and nature. The word ‘biophilic’ comes from the word ‘biophilia’, which means ‘love of life or living systems’. Check out my Biophilic Beauty collection with how I integrate these two trends.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

There is a stronger trend with using AI as a tool to create Art but also on the downside to use AI to generate Art. Many PODs like Spoonflower, Redbubble, and Fine Art America allow AI-generated art to be sold without disclosure but the question around copyright is still debated.

In Australia, the Australian government has ruled out introducing a copyright exemption for AI companies training their models on Australian creative works after it was floated in a Productivity Commission report and strongly rejected by the creative sector.

In USA, the Anderson v. Stability AI lawsuit continues. This is a landmark copyright infringement lawsuit filed by artists against AI companies like Stability AI, Midjourney, and DeviantArt. Currently the court has dismissed some claims, including inducement of infringement, due to a lack of specific factual detail, however, allowed the case to move forward with claims for direct copyright infringement against Stability AI, and permitted artists to file amended complaints for other claims like inducement. This case is one of the first major lawsuits where artists have united to challenge the use of their work for AI training. It is considered a landmark case in the ongoing legal debate over how copyright law applies to generative AI. The case highlights key legal questions about whether training an AI on copyrighted material constitutes infringement and if the “fair use” doctrine applies.

In December 2025, Walt Disney Company and Open AI reached an agreement for Disney to license their content on Sora. As part of a 3 year licensing agreement, Sora will be able to generate short, user-prompted social videos that can be viewed and shared by fans, drawing on more than 200 Disney, Marvel, Pixar and Star Wars characters. Is this a case of ‘if you can’t beat them, join them’ strategy?

Read my blog here on my thoughts on AI in Surface Design.

Design Software

In IT the shift to Software As A Service (SaaS) and Cloud storage has become more and more prominent meaning the subscription model is prolific even in the Art Industry. Adobe’s model has shifted to subscription since 2013 while Affinity offered another alternative to pay once upfront. In 2024, Canva bought Affinity and a year later, on 30 October 2025, Canva has announced that Affinity — its professional design suite — will now be “completely free”. The catch? All AI-powered tools will sit behind the Canva Premium subscription. This announcement signals a BIG shift in the creative design software market — one that could reshape how designers, illustrators, and photographers access professional-grade tools. Will this change the dynamic with Adobe being the current industry leader?

Check out my blog here where I break down this big shift with what it means.

Looking Ahead to 2026

Looking ahead, 2026 feels less about chasing trends and more about intentional design choices. Warm, earthy palettes and biophilic principles are set to become enduring foundations rather than fleeting styles, as homes continue to prioritise comfort, wellbeing and connection to nature.

In the creative industries, the conversation around AI is likely to shift from disruption to definition. As legal frameworks evolve, transparency, ethics and authorship will play a bigger role in how AI is used — positioning it more clearly as a tool that supports, rather than replaces, human creativity. I hope anyway!

Meanwhile, changes in design software and access models point toward a more democratised — yet complex — creative landscape. Ultimately, 2026 signals a move toward slower, more conscious design, where purpose, originality and values matter as much as innovation.

References

• https://www.pantone.com/articles/color-of-the-year/how-to-use-pantone-color-of-the-year-2026-cloud-dancer-in-products
• https://gbdmagazine.com/what-is-biophilic-design/
• https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2025/oct/27/labor-rules-out-giving-tech-giants-free-rein-to-mine-copyright-content-to-train-ai
• https://www.loeb.com/en/insights/publications/2023/11/andersen-v-stability-ai-ltd
• https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/disney-openai-sora-agreement/

This year I’m thrilled to share my latest creation: the “Christmas Botanicals” mini collection, a joyful blend of classic holiday motifs and fresh artistic flair. Think bold poinsettias, glossy holly leaves, cheerful red berries — all paired with playful polka-dots that add a modern twist. For me, nothing says Christmas like the vivid reds, deep greens and cozy warmth these motifs evoke.

The Colour Palette

To bring this collection to life, I chose a harmonious set of festive colours — soft whites and frosty blues reminding me of crisp winter mornings, paired with rich, earthy greens and warm berry reds. These shades set the perfect tone for a Christmas that feels both timeless and personal:

• 872 White Christmas #eceeea
• 729 Jack Frost #c1e7e5
• 1321 Holly Berry #c24c4d
• 288 North Star #f4edcc
• 447 Holiday Wreath #5b6a5b
• 2106–30 Pine Cone #76584a

With this palette, you can easily mix and match elements to create a cohesive holiday aesthetic — whether you’re styling a table, sewing pillow shams, or crafting handmade gifts.

What’s Included in the Mini Collection

This mini collection includes the following designs:

• Poinsettias and Botanicals — bold, cheerful blossoms in festive red, with distinctive leaves and petals that say “holiday tradition.”
• Holly Berry Branches — glossy green leaves and bright red berries for that classic evergreen Christmas spirit.
• Fun polka-dots — a fun, modern addition to balance the nostalgic botanicals; perfect for a fresh, whimsical holiday look.

Decorating Ideas and Holiday Projects

If you want to bring this collection into your home, there are so many lovely ways:

• Table décor: dress your holiday table with a printed tablecloth or runner, layering botanicals and polka dots to create a cheerful and inviting setting for family gatherings.

• Pillow Shams: Scatter these Christmas pillow shames around the living room or reading nook — a cozy and creative way to add holiday spirit.

• Sewing and Crafting Projects: Turn these beautiful fabric into handmade gifts or home items: think tea towels, gift bags, skirts, or soft ornaments — all infused with holiday charm and a personal touch.

These little touches — whether on the table, couch, or as homemade gifts — transform your space into a cozy, festive haven, blending nostalgia with creative expression.

Why I love This Years Collection

There’s something deeply comforting about holiday traditions — the smell of pine, the glow of lights, the joy of handmade touches. For me, these botanical designs and rich holiday hues bring together comfort, creativity, and a touch of nostalgia. Working with these colours and motifs feels like wrapping Christmas itself in art. I hope this collection brings the same warmth, joy and sense of home into your space, whether you’re sewing, decorating, or gifting.

For 2026, Pantone has broken new ground: the chosen shade is not a bold magenta, earthy brown or vivid jewel tone — but a soft, airy white. The colour is officially named Cloud Dancer (PANTONE 11–4201) — the first time a white hue has been crowned “Colour of the Year”.

Pantone describes Cloud Dancer as “a lofty white neutral whose aerated presence acts as a whisper of calm and peace in a noisy world.” It’s meant to evoke serenity, clarity, and the promise of a “fresh start” — a blank canvas on which new ideas, creativity and calm can take shape.

In Pantone’s own narrative: we live in a world overloaded with noise — digital overload, speed, distraction — and Cloud Dancer represents a collective yearning for quiet, simplicity, and introspection. It offers space for our minds to breathe and creativity to emerge.

Why this is a bold — even controversial — move

Declaring a white (or near-white) as Colour of the Year is a bold — especially from Pantone, known for dynamic, expressive swatches in past years. Many in the creative community have balked — “Is white even a colour?” they ask. There is a sense that this pick is less about “colour” and more about absence: an erasure of saturation rather than a celebration of hue.

I was shocked myself and took some time to process this BUT maybe that’s exactly the point. Pantone doesn’t design for every colour-obsessed creative — their aim is broader, targeting not just maximalists chasing vividness but also people craving calm, space, and a reset. In that light, Cloud Dancer is less about making a loud statement, more about offering a canvas for others — acting as a neutral that allows other colours, ideas, and designs to shine.

And regardless of criticism, it’s got people talking. Whether praised for serenity or derided as depressive minimalism, the buzz around Cloud Dancer has reached beyond design-insiders to mainstream media, fashion blogs, and everyday consumers.

Other 2026 colour directions: different stories, different moods

Pantone’s Cloud Dancer isn’t the only “colour of the year” game in town. Other major colour authorities have taken very different directions in 2026 — reflecting a fragmented, diverse view of trends, tastes, and cultural moods.

• Benjamin Moore’s 2026 pick is AF-655 Silhouette — a deep, rich espresso-brown with subtle charcoal undertones. It’s described by the brand as a refined, timeless neutral inspired by tailored suiting.
• Sherwin‑Williams (and its line HGTV) choose SW 6150 Universal Khaki — a warm, earthy beige-khaki. The shade speaks to comfort, stability, and versatility, ideal for everyday living spaces.
• WGSN, in collaboration with Coloro, goes in an entirely different direction with Transformative Teal — a fluid mix of blue and aquatic green, meant to reflect a forward-looking, Earth-conscious mindset.

So: while Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams lean into brown, beige and grounded neutrals which seems to follow on from the brown trend from Pantone’s the colour of last year 2025 Mocha Mousse , WGSN/Coloro are leaning into vibrant, nature-inflected colour. That variety shows how fragmented — yet rich — 2026’s colour landscape is.

Does that mean Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams are lagging behind Pantone? Not necessarily. Their deep-neutral choices feel like a parallel response to the home trend — a nostalgia for stability, groundedness and warmth. Arguably, they are addressing a different — but equally valid — audience than Pantone.

At the same time, WGSN/Coloro’s teal is almost the polar opposite of Cloud Dancer: where white whispers calm and emptiness, teal draws attention, suggests energy, change, growth.

The divergence speaks volumes about how saturated our cultural moment is: not just in colour, but in meaning, mood, and choice.

Conclusion: Is it time for a background colour to take centre stage?

I think Cloud Dancer is a compelling choose and colour — especially for 2026. It’s extremely versatile. Because of its neutrality, it works with pastels, dark tones, natural textures, or bold accents alike. Pantone’s own curated “colour stories” — from airy pastels to earthy browns to dramatic contrasts — show just how adaptable Cloud Dancer can be.

True, Cloud Dancer feels more like background than spotlight. But maybe that’s exactly why it’s so interesting now. In a world overwhelmed by information, noise, number 1 players and fleeting trends, a “colour” that doesn’t shout can offer clarity. A backdrop that doesn’t compete, but enhances. A quiet base rather than a statement.

So yes — maybe it is time for a background colour to shine and be acknowledged instead of staying in the background.

One of my favourite parts of designing for Spoonflower is hearing from you — my customers! Every time I see an email pop into my inbox with a request for a size or colour adjustment, I genuinely get excited. It means you’ve connected with one of my designs and want to make it truly your own, and I love being part of that process.

How to Reach Me

Getting in touch is easy. Just head over to my contact page:

👉 https://nessnordberg.com/contact

Once you’re there, simply let me know:

A) Which design you’d like to adjust

Please include the design name or a link so I know exactly which pattern you’re referring to.

B) What changes you have in mind

This can include resizing and changing colours to suit a specific project.

Tips for Clear Size Requests

If you’re looking for a size adjustment, the more specific you can be, the smoother the process becomes. Let me know exactly how large you want the motifs — for example, “I’d like the holly sprigs to be about 1 inch wide.” Clear measurements help me match your vision perfectly.

Providing Colour Information

For colour changes, it’s incredibly helpful when you can share HEX codes. For example, if you want a different background colour, sending the exact hex code ensures we are working with the same shade. It removes guesswork and gives you the precise look you’re after.

Some Examples

Here are some example requests:

Resize Change

My sweet customer asked for a resize of my (S) Half Drop Scattered Sail Boats in NY Blue w Honeywheat Yellow BG. She provided me the exact inches she wanted the sailboat motifs which help nail her vision in one go! Here’s the design she wanted (XS) Half Drop Scattered Sail Boats in NY Blue w Honeywheat Yellow BG.

Becca from the American Belle 312 who makes amazing headbands and bows asked me for a resize of my (S) Scattered Watercolor Coquette Red & Green Ribbon Bows with Cream BG for her special project. She also provided me the exact measurements for the motifs which helped with a quick turnaround to provide her the design she wanted (Custom) Scattered Watercolor Coquette Red and Green Ribbon Bows w Cream BG.

Colour Change

My lovely customer is currently looking for wallpaper to match her new kitchen. She was interested in a colour change for my (L) Blush Pink Cable Knit with a Seashell White Background design. She reached out to ask for a tone on tone design to match her Sherwin William colours. Here’s what I designed for her after she provided the Hex codes (L) SW 7042 Shoji White Cable Knit with SW 7005 Pure White Background

Another one of my customers who is an interior designer asked for a change of the background colour of one of my most popular designs (M) Pink Bows with Ribbon Diamond Trellis on Alabaster White Background to plain white (Hex Code #FFFFFF) for her customer. (M) Pink Bow Ribbons w Alabaster White accents on Plain White BG was created for her.

Let’s Create Something That Fits Your Vision

Whether you’re tailoring a pattern for home décor, sewing projects, or a special event, I’m here to help. If you have a request — big or small — don’t be shy! Send me a message, and I’ll do my very best to align my designs with your creative vision.

I can’t wait to see what we can create together. 💛