A Textile Designer: What does it entail ?

A Textile Designer...

"Textile designers create fabric designs and patterns for woven, knitted and printed materials, which can be used for clothing and interior furnishings. These designs usually feature repeating patterns."

 

 

What are the required qualification's ?...

 

"There are no formal entry routes to become a textile designer. However, most people enter the industry through one of two main routes. Some begin as a textiles operative and progress into the role of a textile designer. Most companies would expect you to have a relevant degree from an institution with a strong tradition in the textiles field.....Further training is carried out on the job and it may be necessary to complete short courses to update computer, technical or creative skills. On-the-job learning can be part of developing your technical knowledge and skills - once you are working as a textiles designer you will develop your existing skills and learn many new ones"

 

 

What does the job entail ?...

 

"Textile designers need to discuss, understand and interpret the needs, ideas and requirements of their customers accurately. They must consider how the textile will be used and therefore what properties it needs. These properties include the weight, strength, performance and flammability of the material used. Once textile designers have selected the type of textile, they then produce design ideas, sketches and samples for presentation to customers. These are often created using computer-aided design (CAD) packages. A textile designer must work within a budget and to deadlines, whilst keeping up with current trends and production techniques. They may spend a proportion of their time attending trade shows and researching new fabrics and trims."

 

 

Key Points...

be artistic, creative and able to draw with an eye for colour, texture and pattern
have good attention to detail and an understanding of different processes and techniques
have an interest in fashion and textiles with an understanding of trends
good communication and problem solving skills

Is It For Me ?...

My aim is to work within the fashion and textile industry once I graduate. I am considering the role of a textile designer as I am more than happy for work towards fitting the requirements needed for the role.