Surface Pattern Design Trends for 2026

In this post, I’ll break down what’s trending, what’s evolving, and what I’m personally seeing perform well as a surface pattern designer.

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What are the top surface pattern design trends for 2026?

The biggest surface pattern design trends for 2026 include:

• Mahjong

• Maximalist Florals

• True Hand Lettering

Mahjong

One of the most prominent trends in 2026 is hands down, Mahjong.

I’ve been seeing Mahjong-inspired designs everywhere lately, across a wide range of styles.

From bold, rich colour palettes to soft, muted, earthy tones, the interpretation really varies, but one format keeps showing up: the tile-scape. Similar to the table-scape trend, this top-down view of Mahjong tiles gives artists the chance to showcase intricate details and beautifully illustrated motifs.

Mahjong-inspired design is emerging as a distinctive trend in 2026, combining cultural symbolism with strong, graphic composition.

So why now?

A big part of it seems to come down to how people are feeling. There’s a growing desire to step away from screens and reconnect in more meaningful, offline ways (I can definitely relate to this).

According to Pinterest trend data, searches for “screen free activities” have increased by 200%, alongside rising interest in digital detox lifestyles.

As people look for ways to slow down and connect in real life, traditional games like Mahjong are finding new life, not just around the table, but in visual design as well.

I’m seeing this trend show up most in home decor, but it’s also making its way into stationery and textiles, which really speaks to how versatile it is.

I’m excited to explore this one more in my own work, stay tuned!

I am obsessed with this Mahjong design by Cat Coq:

Cat Coq's Instagram

And this one from The Intended Space:

The Intended Space's Instagram

Maximalist Florals

Maximalist florals are having a major moment right now, and honestly, I am fully here for it.

Instead of delicate, minimal patterns, we’re seeing florals become bigger, bolder, and more expressive. Think layered blooms, vibrant colour palettes, and compositions that feel full of life and movement.

This shift isn’t random. It reflects a broader move away from minimalism and toward more personality-driven design.

According to a 2026 interior design survey, 39% of designers identified maximalism as a leading trend, while floral and botanical motifs remain among the most favoured patterns, cited by 22% of designers.

There’s also a strong emotional component behind it. Designers are leaning into colour, pattern, and abundance as a way to create spaces that feel joyful, comforting, and expressive.

In floral design specifically, this is showing up as what some are calling “dopamine florals”.

I’ve been naturally gravitating toward this style in my own work (no surprise there 😄). And one of my latest collections, Valentine’s Garden, is a perfect example of this.

View Post on Instagram

True Hand Lettering

True hand lettering is another trend I’m really excited about right now.

For a long time, lettering felt like something that had to be perfect—clean curves, consistent spacing, everything polished and precise. I’ve definitely struggled with that mindset in my own work.

But what I’m seeing now is a shift toward something much more relaxed and human.

Hand-drawn and imperfect lettering is making a strong comeback, as designers move away from overly digital, uniform styles. In fact, many are intentionally embracing irregularities and inconsistencies as a way to bring more personality and authenticity into their work.

There’s also a bigger cultural shift behind it. As more design becomes automated or AI-generated, truly hand-crafted elements stand out even more. They feel thoughtful, expressive, and real.

For me, this trend feels like permission to let go of perfection and just try something new.

I’ve been experimenting more with hand lettering in my latest collection (stay tuned for the reveal 👀), and it’s been such a refreshing creative shift.

Here is a little sneak peak at my latest collection:

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/1e619c_6fdf8507abbb467889656118912c917d/1080p/mp4/file.mp4

Looking at these trends as a whole, what stands out to me most is the shift toward connection, whether that’s through nostalgic motifs, expressive florals, or imperfect, hand-drawn details.

Everything feels a little more human, a little more personal, and a lot more open to interpretation.

And honestly, that feels like a really refreshing place to create from.

I’m excited to keep exploring these directions in my own work (and sharing more soon 👀).

xx,

Rosalinde 💕

PS Looking for artwork for licensing or available prints? View my portfolio here.