Textile designer

As a textiles designer, you could:

• work with customers and businesses to understand what they want
• create patterns by hand or with computer-aided design software
• use methods like dyeing and printing to make up samples
• produce hand-made products or send designs for manufacture
• research properties of new textiles and fabrics made from sustainable materials
• market and sell products online, at craft fairs or through retail outlets
• keep track of design trends and developments in manufacturing technologies

• design skills and knowledge
• the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
• analytical thinking skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• the ability to work well with your hands
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role

With experience, you could become a senior designer or production manager with a design agency, retailer or manufacturer.

You could work freelance, or move into college or university teaching on a textiles or art and design course.

You could also work in a research department for a company that specialises in developing technical textiles used in areas like aerospace, healthcare and sports equipment design.