Finnish pattern design: The story of Helvi and Sylvi patterns

Patterns designed by Finnish pattern designers have colored Nanso's collections since the 1970s. Domestic pattern design is our strength and a recognizable feature of our clothes for many.

In the fall collection, the playful Helvi and Sylvi prints designed by Kaisu Sandberg are delightful. Let's take a peek into the fascinating world of cat patterns with Kaisu.

How did you end up as a pattern designer?

"I have a six-year work history at Nanso. After that, I started to create a career as an illustrator. Nowadays, I do a lot of postcard illustrations, for example, the motifs of which also gave me ideas for Helvi and Sylvi designs. My work history at Nanso certainly helps me think about design from the perspective of what kind of patterns are right for Nanso's collection ."

"The Helvi and Sylvi patterns are named after my cats. They naturally act as a source of inspiration for the patterns. I added large flowers to the Sylvi patterns, which I wanted to use to create a spectacular and colorful surface. A cat peeks out of the flowers," says Kaisu.

Kaisua is inspired by animal motifs.

What subjects inspire you the most in pattern design?

"I've made quite a lot of patterns with animal motifs. Maybe they're my thing. In addition, I'm fascinated by colors and the small, beautiful moments of everyday life in all design. My patterns also show a kind of calmness and playfulness," Kaisu reflects.

What kind of techniques do you use in design?

"I work mostly digitally. Sometimes I might sketch and come up with ideas quickly, also drawing with a pen. I usually like to start my design with colors and shapes. The first sketches may be quite large, because I first want to see that the shapes and colors are balanced. Only then will I focus on the details."

"In pattern design, even simple elements can create a really interesting surface."

What do you find most fascinating about the work of a pattern designer?

The work of a pattern designer is fascinating when you can test, experiment and play with shapes and colors. It is interesting to see how the whole changes when you change the color, size or position of an element. Even simple elements can create a really interesting surface," Kaisu thinks.

What kind of greetings would you like to send to Nanso's friends?

I hope that the patterns I designed will make you happy and bring a lot of pleasant moments to your everyday life. In addition, I would like to wish all Nanso customers a wonderful Christmas.

You can get to know Helvi and Sylvi products in our online store here .