How to Make a Seamless Trail Pattern Template in Adobe Illustrator for Procreate: 3 Workflows

If you joined me in the first class, you know we explored an unusual way of combining Procreate and Adobe Illustrator to create tossed repeat patterns using raster motifs. That class was all about showing you how to break the rules a little and use Illustrator’s Pattern Options tool in new, creative ways. In this second class, we’re taking things a step further with continuous trail patterns. At first, these patterns can seem tricky because of their flowing, interconnected layout. But once you understand the technical foundation, it becomes much easier—and even fun—to experiment and make them your own.

Hi everyone!!

I’m Geetanjali, an artist, illustrator, and surface pattern designer from Goa. Over the past eight years, I’ve created patterns for clients, licensed collections to fabric companies, and sold my designs on sites like Spoonflower. And now, I’m excited to share another one of my favourite workflows with you.

In this class, I’ll walk you through how to create a seamless continuous trail pattern using a combination of two fantastic tools—Adobe Illustrator and Procreate. This method comes with some awesome perks! First, you get to choose your repeat type and size from a range of options—without stressing over complicated math. You’ll also be able to see the overall flow of your pattern early on, making it easy to refine before finalizing your design. And the best part? These templates can be used for everything—from detailed hero patterns to simpler blenders.

Here’s what we’ll explore together:

Building the basic trail template in Illustrator

Preparing the pattern tile for use in Procreate

Sketching and drawing motifs in Procreate

Workflow 1: Vectorising the Procreate artwork in Illustrator and building the pattern

Workflow 2: Creating a raster pattern directly from Procreate artwork in Illustrator

Workflow 3: Building the entire pattern in Procreate itself

Exploring the versatility of this workflow and how to adapt it to your own creative process

To make things easier, I’ve also included three ready-to-use trail structure templates. If you’re unsure where to start, these will give you a strong foundation to build from.

This class is designed for intermediate to advanced students, so having prior knowledge of both Procreate and Adobe Illustrator is important.

By the end of this class, you’ll feel confident about the technical side of creating continuous trail patterns, and you’ll have three different workflows you can rely on—whether you’re working in vector, raster, or fully in Procreate.

I can’t wait to see the beautiful trail patterns you create—let’s dive in!

WHAT YOU'LL NEED:

Ipad with Apple pencil
Procreate app
Laptop / Computer
Adobe Illustrator
Adobe Photoshop
A Wacom tablet ( optional )