When I first started working as a textile designer, this industry was quiet….eerily quiet. There were no blogs or online training programs, only a few books and magazines and textile designers were far and few between. Over the past ten years this industry has dramatically changed and textile (or surface) design is on the tip of every designer’s tongue. Graphic designers, illustrators and even some fashion designers, like myself, have flocked to this industry and really, who can blame them? We have the coolest job in the design industry, am I right? So what does this mean for the designers out there?
It is time to step it up.
There is a significant void in the marketplace for strong textile designers who not only create high quality artwork, but who are also capable of running a professional textile design business. It is no longer enough to know illustrator, or how to create a repeat, your business has to go above and beyond in every way possible. Running a “professional business” can mean many things to different people, but in my experience a successful design businesses has: focus, authenticity, consistency, and an understanding of how to successfully communicate with clients.
Many textile designers never take their business to the professional level because they lack focus. Too many of us try to design for every market, every client, every trend, every style. This market is so vast that if you try to appeal to every client, you will appeal to none at all.
For example, I was recently looking for a textile designer who specialized in the childrenswear industry. I searched and I searched, but I never came across the expert that I needed. I found plenty of designers who dabbled in this field, but no one (that I could find) was marketing themselves in such a focused way. Experience, expertise and confidence are comforting to potential clients. We all want to know that we are working with the best that the industry has to offer.
So how can you begin to fill this void?
Try reflecting on your recent work. Was there a print collection that you couldn’t stop working on? (There is such a thing as too many print coordinates!) Was there a particular aspect of a project, such as trend research or production, that you didn’t want to move on from? Is there an area of the market that you can’t stop researching?
Can you think of an example? If so, take this newly discovered focus and run like the wind! Learn everything you can about this particular market, style or specialty. If not, keep looking. You may need more time or experience and that is just fine. When you are ready to move forward you’ll be able to do so with focus and conviction.
This industry is hungry for more leaders, more experts and those willing to take their business to the next level. I make this statement as a print buyer, client, interviewer, blogger and mentor. I see what’s going on out there and there is a place for you and your business!
- Michelle
10 Comments
October 11, 2012 at 6:03 pm
This is a very inspiring post Michelle! Thanks for sharing your keen insight into the industry, once again!
October 11, 2012 at 7:18 pm
The industry HAS changed so much! I am shocked the past few years. It is all very exciting. Thank you for always having the most awesome and helpful blog posts!
October 11, 2012 at 8:27 pm
This is so helpful! It’s good to know that honing in on something specific and being excellent at it can get you far. Sometimes I feel overwhelmed by the pull to be good at everything…I just can’t do that. Now I can breathe a little!
October 11, 2012 at 10:42 pm
What great words! I think those qualities of focus, authenticity, consistency, and communication skills are essential to all people in small biz, no matter what the industry. And as Amber pointed out, trying to be good at everything leaves you feeling overwhelmed. Which means you NEVER get to do your best work.
Communication should not be underestimated. If a client received equally good submissions from two designers, the one that would get the job is the one who communicates better. If your skills aren’t fabulous in that area, get someone to collaborate with (even friends & family are useful, if money is an issue). But start by just getting your work out there! With Pinterest, Facebook, etc, there’s no excuse.
If you’re serious about your work, you’ll still get to the top if you’re consistent – it may just take a bit longer. Or just be twice as good as everyone else!
October 12, 2012 at 7:55 pm
[...] Tools Filling the void in today’s textile design marketplace [...]
October 13, 2012 at 10:09 pm
Thanks Ellie! I have no doubt that you are on your way!
October 13, 2012 at 10:20 pm
You are right Julie, communication is important in any business and getting help is KEY! When I started blogging and teaching I struggled with how to effectively communicate with so many people on a daily, even hourly basis. I was misplacing information, forgetting to respond to emails: it was a mess! The pace was so intense and I finally realized that I needed help! Chelsea now helps me with so many aspects of my business and it allows me to stay afloat and do the work that I do best.
Awesome comments everyone! I love the conversation ; )
October 14, 2012 at 1:57 pm
Thanks Michelle-you provide a really solid set of questions which will help us get focused.
October 15, 2012 at 9:24 pm
[...] my inbox to an inspiring blog post by Michelle Fifis over at Pattern Observer. The post was titled “Filling the Void in Today’s Textile Design Marketplace” and if you, like me, are trying to find your way in this surface design world, I highly recommend [...]
January 7, 2013 at 9:37 pm
Spot on. The practice is so much more than simply banging out patterns; it is fundamentally an intellectual pursuit. Design speaks; it is not just about looks. The designers who really go far do so because they commit to the complete process of design, not just the formal components. We need a bit more why? to drive the what?
Or something like that…