Sam Osborne
81 // Sam Osborne is based in Thame, near Oxford, UK. She studied Graphic Design at Surrey University in Farnham (now part of the University for the Creative Arts). Sam worked as a graphic designer specializing in print and brand design for nearly eight years before starting her own business as a freelance graphic designer, surface pattern designer, illustrator and design consultant. Sam loves design and architecture from the 1950s and 60s and Pop Art, and she loves to use shape and texture in her work. She is always looking for new elements to incorporate into her work, and inspiration can strike anywhere, from the supermarket to the woods. As well as her own range of gifts, homewares and stationery, Sam has designed for Keka and Post-it Brand. She is looking to grow her own label and is seeking new licensing opportunities. Her dream design project would be a range of tableware. She would also love to see her graphics on the side of a car.
Design Heroes: Henri Matisse, Bridget Riley, Alan Fletcher
Hexagons Within Hexagons
Sam created a series of six patterns, all using the same basic hexagon shape, that combine in a variety of different ways. Here concentric hexagons in black outline are overlaid on solid colours.
Love Triangles
Hatched lines are used to create texture and tonal differences in simple triangle shapes. Sam used this design on greetings cards and a wall planner for her own product range.
Confetti Grid
Heavily influenced by mid-century modern design, this square-andasterisk pattern was originally created for customizable wedding invitations.
Optimetrics Whirl
This complex, spinning pattern, from Sam’s dynamic ‘Optimetrics’ collection, draws the eye in towards the centre.