Pinterest Predicts 2026: How to use trends as a surface designer
Pinterest just released their new Pinterest Predicts report for 2026, and as always… it is packed with absolute GOLD for surface pattern designers.
Every year, Pinterest analyses the behaviour of millions of Pinners, what they’re searching, saving, planning and buying, and turns that data into a free trend report. And while no trend forecasting is 100% accurate, Pinterest has a pretty incredible track record (hello bows… and the pickle trend!).
If you’re a surface designer who wants your work to stay relevant, fresh and commercially appealing in 2026, this report is a must-read. And the best part?
It’s completely free.
You can check out the full report here: 2026 Pinterest Predicts
Below is my designer-friendly breakdown of the 2026 trends and how you can translate them into patterns, illustrations, and collections.
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Why Pinterest predicts matters for surface designers
Pinterest influences how people design their homes, what they buy, and what styles gain momentum throughout the year.
Their data shapes:
home decor trends
colour palettes
motifs that start popping up
the design language people are drawn to
what brands start paying attention to
So even though it’s not exact or prescriptive, it gives surface designers a valuable early look at what customers will be craving. Most of these predictions will continue rising well into 2026, so designers who start now will be ahead of the curve.
5 of the 22 trends I’m excited to use in 2026
Here are the key 2026 Pinterest Predicts trends that I think have strong potential for pattern design, illustration, wallpaper, textiles and consumer product surfaces.
1. FunHaus
A playful, bold, theatrical aesthetic inspired by circus motifs and personality-packed interiors.
What this means for designers:
Think maximalist stripes, bold geometric repeats, quirky motifs, colour-forward palettes and big personality. Perfect for wallpaper, home decor textiles, kids’ spaces, stationery and bold art licensing projects.
2. Afrohemian Decor
A warm, global, textural fusion of natural materials, artisan craft, and bohemian influences.
Design opportunities:
Earthy palettes, woven textures, hand-drawn symbols, tribal-inspired motifs, and organic, imperfect lines. This translates beautifully into cushion textiles, rugs, wallpaper, bedding, and decor-driven pattern collections.
3. Neo Deco
A modern, updated take on Art Deco, glamorous yet lived-in, structured yet soft.
For your patterns:
Graphic symmetry, fan shapes, arches, scallops, elegant geometric repeats, tile-inspired layouts, metallic-feeling palettes. Perfect for interiors, wallpaper, fabric-by-the-yard, boutique hotels, luxury stationery and packaging.
4. Extra Celestial
A dreamy, cosmic, futuristic aesthetic with iridescent and space-inspired elements.
Creative ideas:
Holographic-inspired textures, subtle gradients, soft abstract shapes, celestial motifs, metallic accents and ethereal repeats. Works beautifully for accessories, home decor, tech accessories, textiles and lifestyle goods.
5. Laced Up
Romantic, tied-up detailing with a soft, corset-inspired edge and anything that feels a little romantic and a little rebellious.
Design directions:
Lace textures, ribbon motifs, corset-style linework, delicate trims, ornamental detailing, structured repeats. Ideal for fashion prints, accessories, stationery, home décor accents and any collection that leans feminine, whimsical or editorial.
How to use trends in your art
Here’s how I recommend you approach the report as a surface designer:
Don’t copy trends, interpret them
You don’t need to change your entire style. Simply choose trends that naturally align with your aesthetic and explore how they can inspire fresh motifs or collections.
Create mini collections
Design 3–5 pieces inspired by each trend you resonate with and start turning them into:
patterns
spot illustrations
Spoonflower patterns
add them to your portfolio
share designs on mockups on social media and pinterest
Use trend names in your SEO
Art directors will be hearing these terms all year. When your SEO includes these trending terms like “Neo Deco” or “Afrohemian,” you are more likely to be found - especially when posting on Pinterest. You can find a treasure trove of keywords in their full report.
Develop content for Pinterest
Show your design process, trend-based colour palettes, designs and mockups, Pinterest LOVES searchable content like this.
Want to read the full trend report?
You can check out the complete Pinterest Predicts 2026 report here
It’s totally free and honestly such a game-changer if you want your designs to feel fresh and future-focused.
How to use Pinterest to get your artwork SEEN?
If reading this has you thinking, “Okay, I need to start using Pinterest properly…”
I’ve got two resources that will help:
Free Pinterest guide for surface designers
A beginner-friendly guide to help you set up your Pinterest account strategically for growing your art business.
My full Pinterest workshop
A deeper dive into Pinterest SEO, content strategy, and how to get your designs discovered by art directors, buyers and ideal clients.
These two resources pair perfectly with this trend report, because knowing the trends and knowing how to get seen with them is where the magic happens.
*click image for more info xx
Final thoughts
The Pinterest Predicts 2026 report is a rich resource for surface pattern designers, not a rulebook, but a creative spark.
Use what aligns with your style, experiment with motifs and palettes, build trend-inspired collections, and let the report guide you toward what buyers may be looking for next year.
And if you want help getting more eyes on your work?
Pinterest is your secret weapon, and I’m here to help you make the most of it.
