THE 5-MINUTE READ THAT TELLS YOU WHAT TO DESIGN THIS MONTH
(You totally need this newsletter, babe!)
THIS NEWSLETTER IS FOR YOU IF...
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When it comes to trends, you might as well be living under a rock. You never know what's hot!
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Your designs are pretty but aren't selling, so you need to know what companies actually want.
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You want current trends without endless research. And no essays please, who has time for that?
ON THE MENU EACH MONTH
Each issue is full of fresh ideas, tips, practical examples and fun visuals... and all packed in a condensed package that can be read in just 5 minutes 😍
You're in for a treat!
THE MAIN COURSE
This is a big theme that's really in demand right now! I'll explain what it is, the visual characteristics and elements and how to use it commercially. Plus, I'll give you several examples of how to use it.
THE SIDE DISHES
I'll also give 3 trending motifs every month. These are small icons that you can incorporate into other themes. I'll mix this up every once in a while: I could give you a trending color palette, seasonal elements or more!
THE CHEF'S RECOMMENDATION
A bonus tip from a professional! This could be an important evergreen topic to remember, surface design news or events to keep an eye on, opportunities to sell your work, buyer insights, personal anecdote, etc.
HAPPY HOUR
This is our monthly draw-along challenge! Each month, I will challenge you to draw a design incorporating one (or more!) of the trends we discussed in the newsletter. Submit your art for a chance to be featured in the next issue of Surface Design Trends.
THE DESSERT
Each month, I will feature 6-9 designs from our talented community of surface designers (with a link to their site, of course!) This is eye-candy, inspiration and exposure all in one!
WHY YOU NEED THIS
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Trend research can be time-consuming and genuinely confusing.
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You have to look at a lot of different sources, like fashion shows and long corporate reports.
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It's often unclear how that can apply to surface design specifically.
While I'm a huge nerd who actually likes trend research, I realize that's not the case for everyone 😅
So let me take care of the trend research so you can go back to what you love: Designing.
BUT FIRST... WHO AM I TO GIVE TREND ADVICE?
Hey there!
My name is Vanessa Stoilova, and I'm a surface designer represented by Pink Light Studio.
I've collaborated with amazing clients like American Greetings, Hallmark, Casetify, TJ-Maxx and more.
So I really have my finger on the pulse! I constantly keep an eye out for trends and do extensive research every month.
I notice what's in stores, what clients are requesting, what shows up on red carpets, and what goes viral on Pinterest.
I figure, why not share what I discover with you?
STILL GOT QUESTIONS?
LET'S CLEAR THEM UP!
When will I receive the first issue?
You will receive the current month's issue automatically when you sign up!
How many trends are there be in each issue?
Each issue features one big theme trend (which I call the main dish) and 3 motif trends (the side dishes!)
That's 4 trends in total, plus some bonus tips.
How do I participate in the drawing challenge?
There are 2 options to submit your artwork:
- Post on Instagram with our hashtag
- OR send your art through our Google Form
I can't wait to see your beautiful designs!
Will I get past issues?
YES!
We're only just starting this adventure, but as more monthly issues get released, they will be added to a private cloud folder.
Subscribers will have access to the past year of issues. Older ones will be removed, since trends do have an expiration date.
Can I cancel anytime?
Sure can!
This is month to month and you decide how long you want to stay. I'll have a link to cancel in the footer of the newsletter.
Is this beginner friendly?
Absolutely!
The newsletter will give you inspiration and strategic ideas of what to draw, which you can adapt to your own style, media and skill level.
Beginners are welcome. Trends are fun, and it's never too early to learn about them!
Can I download the newsletters?
Yes!
I will provide a PDF version of each issue for safekeeping on your device.
Is there a refund policy?
I will be happy to refund any unsent newsletters.
After you've received and opened it, unfortunately it's too late for a refund. However, you can cancel at any time!
NOW IT'S YOUR TURN!
Join Surface Design Trends and say goodbye to trend confusion!
Start with your first 4 trends now.
(c) Surface Design Trends 2026