Every pattern, whether man-made or natural, involves the repetition of a basic unit called a motif, or a repeating theme. The motif may be a square, circle, line, triangle, or even an organic shape. Some patterns have complex forms with intricate texture and intense color. Other natural patterns are simple and elegant, showing a mathematical perfection. Check out some of the patterns found in the natural world by clicking through this slideshow.

Tiger Stripes While the pattern of stripes we see on tigers may look cool to us, they're essential for the tiger's ability to hunt its prey. Cuttlefish The dynamic and animated pattern on a cuttlefish helps it communicate, attract mates, and camouflage itself from predators. Honeycombs A bee's honeycomb is based around a tiling of hexagonal cells, creating a beautiful geometric pattern. Romanesco This green cauliflower grows in an intricate pattern found throughout nature, called the "Golden Ratio." Bismuth  This bismuth crystal shows an iridescent, stair step pattern.

Many of the motifs used in fabric, weavings, and other everyday objects have been inspired by the patterns found in nature—whether from plants, animals, or natural formations. The patterns in nature provide a rich source of inspiration for your own creative work. Click through the tabs below to see how a designer might use a pattern in nature to create a unique design.