William Morris: Hidden Geometry & Wallpaper Tessellation
Online Practical Drawing & Painting Workshop
10% fees for online classes go to unicef’s children-in-gaza-crisis-appeal
All classes finish before UK Iftar
Step inside the richly patterned world of William Morris and uncover the hidden systems that allow his wallpapers to flow endlessly across the surface with such natural grace and quiet order.
This two-part online workshop explores how Morris transformed organic motifs — flowers, vines, birds, and leaves — into precise tessellation systems, carefully masking the underlying geometry so the pattern feels grown rather than constructed. Through guided drawing and painting, we will reveal how translation, reflection, and symmetry operate beneath the surface, and how natural forms are woven into seamless repeats.
Day One — Structure & Hidden Geometry
We begin by analysing classic Morris designs to uncover their repeat units, axes of symmetry, and “invisible grids.” Through practical exercises, you’ll learn how stems, blooms, and foliage act as structural lines that lock the pattern together while keeping the repeat beautifully concealed.
Day Two — Drawing, Repeating & Painting the Pattern
Building on this foundation, you’ll construct your own repeating wallpaper panel. We’ll refine the linework, establish the full tessellation, and bring the design to life with watercolour, exploring colour harmony, layering, and the subtle depth that gives Morris’s patterns their distinctive richness.
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Identify and map the repeat systems in Morris’s wallpapers
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Understand how organic motifs carry geometric structure
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Construct seamless translation and reflection repeats
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Develop a full hand-drawn tessellated pattern
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Apply watercolour techniques for depth, rhythm, and tonal balance
All levels are welcome — from beginners to experienced artists and designers. The class is taught step by step, guiding you through each stage of the process, from analysis and construction to finished painted design.
By the end of the workshop, you will have a fully drawn and painted repeating pattern inspired by the principles behind Morris’s most celebrated wallpapers, along with a deeper understanding of how nature, geometry, and ornament intertwine in Arts & Crafts design.
A full recording of both sessions
- Practical drawing class with a short introductory lecture
- All abilities welcome (no drawing experience required)
- Please arrive on time so the step-by-step progression is clear
- Downloadable recording
These online presentations are taught by Adam Williamson, inspired by his studies and travels.
Required Materials
- Compass
- Ruler
- A3 or A2 drawing paper
Mid‑tone paper is recommended (grey, tan, or natural craft). However, alternatives are encouraged, including hand‑tinted, coloured, or marbled paper, all of which create beautiful grounds for highlighting. - White pencil
- Graphite pencils: 3B–HB range
- Tracing paper
- Zero eraser / precision eraser (or equivalent)
Optional (useful but not essential):
Fine‑line drawing pens (0.1–0.5
After registering, you will receive links to the class recording
email: adamzoomclasses@gmail.com
This course will take place on Zoom, so please download the free Zoom app beforehand.
