What are pattern and shape?
A pattern is made when a group of shapes or lines are joined together. A shape is an area enclosed by a line or mark. A shape can be abstract - it does not have to look like something that you recognise. Any shape will look more interesting if colour and texture are added. Patterns can be natural or manmade. Look below at some of the many patterns found in nature.

Pattern found in nature

Pattern in a dry river bed		Honeycomb Pattern
Pattern made by logs		Pattern made by clouds

Pattern made by flowers		Pattern made by trees

Learn how repetition makes a pattern at the Artist's Toolkit

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