- Knit patterns or patterns that resembles a knit sweater are among the raised and generally vertical pattern options, though braided shapes are also viable. Other ideas include "V" shapes --another common sweater pattern -- or zigzag shapes. Some sweaters are even crocheted to feature animal designs, such as owls. Paint the patterns or leave as is for curling up with hot cocoa on a winter's eve.
- Create one big floral design on each side of the mug or go for rows of flowers to form patterns. More intricate designs are also an option depending on skill level, such as wildflowers growing in a field or a garden filled with various types of flowers. Create your design based on real flowers, from simple tulip designs to challenging iris designs, or come up with your original flower design.
- Carve sun and moon designs into mugs individually or create a "sun" side and a "moon" side on a mug. If using moon designs only, consider etching moons across the mug from waxing to waning, or carve a moon design on either side, such as the full moon over the ocean or a crescent moon over a wheat field. Carve and paint various artistic representations of the sun in yellow and orange, or carve a setting sun over a town or forest area.
- Animal themes are a popular option for ceramic mug design that can also range from the basic to the intricate. Basic round cat or dog faces are ideas for children to carve into ceramic mugs. Endangered species representations can be sold as fundraising items for nonprofit animal rights groups. Create images of polar bears on melting icecaps or outlines of coyotes howling at the moon. Other ideas include using one animal design to fill the entire outer mug space, such as a winding snake.
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