Ann Gardner
My creative journey started at the kitchen table, with construction paper, crayons, and Colorforms in hand, and cookies baking in the oven. My parents were endlessly creative, and every year they made their own Christmas cards at that table. It wasn’t just a place to make things, it was where joy, imagination, and togetherness lived. And it’s still the heart of everything I create today.
I’ve always loved working with my hands — drawn to color, texture, and the quiet challenge of making something that feels just right. That instinct led me into graphic design, and eventually to surface pattern design, where everything clicked. There’s a deep satisfaction in crafting a pattern that repeats seamlessly, but also tells a story. One that sparks joy, stirs a memory, or helps someone celebrate the people they love.
My collections are often inspired by nostalgia, childhood, and quiet moments of happiness, with a dose of whimsy woven in. I believe good design has the power to comfort, uplift, and connect, whether it’s printed on fabric for a handmade quilt or wrapped around a meaningful gift.
When I’m not designing, I’m often in the kitchen (I'm also a classically trained pastry chef), baking for family and friends. It’s another way I express love and creativity, and in many ways, my patterns are a love language to the world.
My work has been licensed by brands including Cloud9 Fabrics, Minted, and Greenvelope, and I’m always excited to collaborate with partners who value thoughtful, joy-filled design. I’m currently seeking new licensing opportunities with brands that appreciate storytelling, sentiment, and creativity with heart. Let’s create something meaningful together.
Interested in licensing my work? Contact me! I'd love to connect.