Hello,

I’m Sabeth Elberse — an illustrator, surface designer, and maker from Utrecht, the Netherlands. Started as a Graphic designer, now creating bold, colorful designs inspired by imperfect shapes, playful compositions, and a love for handmade craftsmanship. Featured o.a. in Uppercase magazine and the Surface pattern guide of 2025 and as a finalist of the Etsy design Awards in '23. From my home studio, I design artwork for a variety of surfaces and applications, ranging from textiles and stationery to editorial illustration and home décor. My creative process combines traditional techniques with digital design, always beginning by hand. Using scissors and black or white paper, I intuitively cut shapes and compositions without overthinking the outcome. These handmade paper cutouts — and sometimes even the leftover scraps — become the foundation for my final designs.

Afterward, I refine the shapes digitally into vibrant vector artwork, adding color, texture, scale, and detail while preserving the movement and energy of the original cut paper. The result is a distinctive visual language that feels bold, organic, playful, and full of character. Birds often find their way into my work as well — quietly slipping into patterns and compositions along the way.

Growing up on a farm in a highly creative family shaped the artist I am today. I have always been drawn to the simplicity and imperfection of working with paper and scissors. There is something freeing about this process: the unexpected edges, spontaneous forms, and tactile quality often lead to the most interesting results.

My work is strongly inspired by mid-century modern graphic design, combining abstract forms, vibrant colors, retro influences, and graphic patterns. These elements translate beautifully into surface pattern design, fabrics, stationery, editorial projects, and art prints.

In my Etsy shop, you’ll find products featuring my designs, including large printed tapestries and art prints. I love seeing my work translated onto fabric — it brings the scale, texture, and color fully to life.

My designs from Sabeth Elberse Studio are also available for licensing and creative collaborations within the home décor, textile, stationery, and lifestyle industries. Looking for expressive patterns, bold artwork, fresh imperfect lines, or colorful retro-inspired designs with texture and personality? You are in the right place.

(Sabeth Elberse Studio)