The Art of Paper & Pattern: A Conversation with Otto Editions

For many creatives, the journey into their craft is a gradual unfolding of curiosity and discovery. For Emma, the founder of Otto Editions, the path to pattern-making evolved from a deep appreciation for color, form, and repetition—elements that naturally led them to study textiles. But their love for patterns eventually took shape through an unexpected medium: paper. “There’s something wonderfully tactile about working with paper—its structure, weight, as well as its versatility and endless variety. I have always been drawn to working with paper, an effortlessly easy and egalitarian medium to work with,” they explained.

This affinity for paper was the catalyst for Otto Editions, a venture born out of a desire to create joyful and purposeful designs. The vision? To bridge the gap between mass production and handcrafted design, offering high-quality, sustainable paper goods that celebrate contemporary craft. “Since studying textiles, my perspective has expanded beyond simply designing patterns. Now, it’s about creating meaningful experiences through design—whether it is wrapping paper that turns a gift into an event or a fabric that becomes a cherished part of someone’s home.”

Finding inspiration in the unexpected

Otto Editions’ designs are fueled by an eclectic mix of influences, from mid-century design books and architectural details to vintage textiles and everyday observations. The interplay of light and shadow, the rhythm of repetition—these subtle elements shape the designer’s creative vision.

Drawn to artists who play with space and structure, like Alexander Calder and Anni Albers, with a particular appreciation for Henri Matisse,” they note, “As a child, I adored The Snail—its simplicity and abstraction still resonate with me today. That sense of bold yet simple sophistication is something I strive for in my work.”

The creative process: from paper to print

Each design begins with a spark—perhaps a color combination, a fleeting observation, or an interesting form. “I usually start with loose sketches, keywords, or a theme before moving into paper cuttings,” Emma explains. “Working with physical materials first gives the patterns a more organic rhythm before I refine them digitally.” While typically working at their studio in silence, the creative space is full of visual references: collected photographs, plants, and samples that subtly guide the composition. “Once I transition into the digital stage, I refine and play with structure and repetition before applying color. The process is a balance of instinct and precision.”

On archiving & collecting

A passion for collecting is prominent in Otto Editions’ ethos. In fact, the name itself is a nod to the archival nature of the work. Throughout their work, there are recurring themes of structure versus fluidity in the rhythm of repetition. They will also find themselves revisiting specific themes, like color palettes, to refine and evolve them. “I have an ever-growing library of books, paper ephemera, swatches, and samples that I constantly revisit.”

Archiving paper cuttings is an integral part of their practice, though not without its challenges. “By nature, I don’t want to stick my cuttings down, as they take on a life of their own when allowed to move and dance in my hands. Finding the best way to organize and store them has been a process in itself.”

A digital companion for a visual thinker

Beyond physical archives, Otto Editions relies on Dropmark as a digital extension of their creative process to track themes, create mood boards, and organize without feeling cluttered.

Dropmark is my visual mind map—where I collect references, color inspiration, design ideas, and even textures or compositions that catch my eye.

For Emma, Dropmark is a way to refine rather than accumulate. Before Dropmark, their desktop was overwhelmed with a sea of screenshots, which is very relatable. Now, they feel more confident in structuring their inspiration in such a way that helps streamline the creative process.

Overcoming design challenges through abstract thinking

One of Otto Editions’ most recent projects—a holiday collection—offered a unique design challenge. “I wanted to capture the essence of Christmas without it feeling overly commercial,” they recall. Instead of relying on traditional motifs, Emma focused on evoking the feeling of the season.

The result? RicRac—a dynamic pattern inspired by the ribbon often used to hang ornaments and wrap gifts—and Harlequin, a subtle nod to Christmas baubles and twinkling lights. “Both patterns carry the energy and joy of the season but are versatile enough to be used all year round.”

Inspiration in the everyday

The search for inspiration is constant, sometimes appearing in the most unexpected places. When asked about the most interesting thing they’ve Dropmarked recently, the answer is delightfully simple: a photograph of colorful shipping containers. “It’s a brilliant reminder that inspiration can be found anywhere—in the mundane, in the everyday. Sometimes, all it takes is a shift in perspective.”

Otto Editions continues redefining the role of patterns in our lives, transforming everyday objects into artful, intentional, and deeply personal. With an ever-growing archive and an eye for the beauty in the unexpected, the future of Otto Editions is sure to be filled with color, form, and endless creative exploration. Thanks for taking the time to chat with us, Emma!

Check out their creations on their website or instagram for more!