Hello, dear friends!
It's been a while, hasn't it? Over the past nine months, I've been juggling my part-time job alongside my freelance business. Freelancing is hard and not for everyone, so working part-time has been really helpful as client work and print sales can be inconsistent at times.
Working at an interior textile company has been eye-opening. I’d like to share why this change has been essential for my growth as a textile designer, with some fascinating insights from my journey into the world of interior textiles:
1. A Shift in Design Aesthetics:
Designing for interiors versus fashion involves strikingly different scales and colour schemes. While fashion often demands vibrant and intricate prints, interior designs lean towards neutral, calming colour palettes, simple shapes, and timeless patterns. This shift has been incredibly refreshing for me, as I now appreciate more soothing and enduring designs that evoke a sense of tranquillity and sophistication.
2. Longer Lead Times, Less Stress:
The fast-paced fashion industry can be overwhelming with its relentless deadlines and constant pressure to stay ahead of trends. (Did you know that Zara releases about 24 mini collections per year!?) In contrast, the interior design, homewares and wall covering industry allow for longer research, development, sampling, and production timelines. This slower pace has been a breath of fresh air, allowing me to rethink the potential of the creative process, without the looming threat of quick turnarounds.
3. The Art of Customization:
Customization in the fashion industry is somewhat limited, with print designs often sold as-is. In a retail environment, the garment would typically feature a print in one or two colourways. However, in the realm of interior textiles, customization thrives. I've been amazed at the array of colourways available for a single print design, allowing samples to be tailored to match each client's unique style and taste. The ability to work with interior designers and stylists to create personalized spaces has been a rewarding and fulfilling experience.
4. Exploring Versatility:
While my background primarily lies in fashion, this transition into interior textiles has expanded my horizons. It's shown me that as a textile print designer, there are still many new avenues to explore. The versatility of this field has been a revelation, encouraging me to think beyond traditional boundaries and adapt my skills to various creative niches.
In conclusion, my journey into interior textiles has been enlightening. It's a realm where simplicity reigns supreme, time is a friend, and customization knows no bounds. While my background may be rooted in the fast-paced world of fashion, this new chapter has revealed that as a textile print designer, the possibilities are endless.
Whether your passion lies in fashion, homewares, or any creative niche, remember that surface pattern design offers a world of opportunities for exploration and adaptation.
Stay inspired, keep creating, and embrace the diverse opportunities that await in the textile and design universe!
Carolyn