Pattern Design for the Rest of Us
 

Popular Pattern Types: Textures

To create a texture, you will typically start from a uniform motif that has as many small elements, and as few larger features, as possible and use symmetries without mirrors or rotations, usually Simple shift , with half-drop or brick repeat; or (sparingly) Glide reflection and Double glide .
Sample gravel texture
Source image credit: Photo by Stan Zurek.
Rotating the source image often lets you achieve a more uniform look in your textures.