How can I create a background pattern with small, cartoon-like, hand-drawn stencil images?

Question

For example, in this picture (ignore the logo):

I love how the background is cute and made up of small, simple images. Where can I find resources like this background, or how can I recreate it?

Answer 1

I had misread the original question, and Matt's extensive answer covers the 'finding resources' part of it perfectly. But in case you want to re-create the background pattern yourself, you can do it quite easily using probably any graphic software.

The steps would be something like this:

• Create a square canvas / artwork for the background color
• Add your drawings (you can use vectors, PNG images with transparency, shapes, etc)
• Make the drawings semi-transparent (these are 20% alpha)
• Making sure the design is seamless, and convert it into a pattern (in Photoshop, this can be done via Edit > Define Pattern.

Answer 2

You could always try Google and search for "vector patterns", "vector pattern backgrounds", or "vector pattern maker". A few sites that come to mind if you are looking for vector backgrounds:

• VectorStock
• DinPattern
• SquidFingers
• Pattern8
• DreamsTime
• Alice Grafixx
• ColorLouvers
• TileMachine
• Citrus Moon Patterns