Tim uses a vector program called Glass Eye 2000 (Dragonfly Software) to create his designs.  He usually starts with a rough segmented sketch that he scans into the program.  The program has an Auto Trace function that he sometimes uses.  However, the sketch has to be fairly well drawn to produce a usable product.  Often, Tim just freehands the design using the drawing tool.  Tim does not consider himself an artist and most of his sketches are crude drawings.  That's why it takes him so long to create a pattern.  It takes anywhere from two to four weeks to create a single design.  All of Tim's designs are based off of ideas in his head.  He usually starts with a theme and creates several patterns based on that theme.  Tim is always open intarsia design ideas.  Just send him a suggestion through the Contact Us section.