SFD008: How to Have A Successful Career as A Textile Designer

In this episode I’m chatting with Michelle Fifis, founder of Pattern Observer and creator of the Textile Design Lab, a blog and community that helps creatives grow their textile design business. Michelle’s done textile work for Columbia Sportswear, Lucy Activewear, Jantzen Swimwear, Perry Ellis and had been featured in Stylesight.com, Elle Decor, and Nordstrom. In the interview, she shares how she got started and worked her way up in the industry, her strategy for leaving her full time job to start freelancing, and how she grew her blog into a successful online business. Michelle and I also talked about how to choose and start working with an agency or print house, how to stay motivated when you feel deflated, and not only how to price your work, but how to gracefully raise your prices. You will learn: The role a textile designer plays in the fashion world The pros and cons of working with an agent or print house How to rediscover your creativity when you feel stuck The importance of having patience with your career growth How to stay up to date on trends if you don't have access to expensive services like WGSN The importance of having a community and not working in a vacuum Guest Info & Resources: Pattern Observer blog Why it's okay to take a break from social media Surtex textile show Vogue Enjoy the show? You can help us out by: Rating us on iTunes - it really helps! Subscribing on iTunes - I appreciate each and every one of you! Looking for more resources? Get free fashion design templates, tutorials and more from Successful Fashion Designer

Om Podcasten

This is a show for burnt-out fashion designers (and TDs, PDs, patternmakers and beyond) who want more flexibility while still doing work they love. As a freelance fashion designer, you can build your fashion career on your own terms. Freelancing in fashion is the only way to get freedom in your day (instead of being tied to a desk). Whether you want to earn extra money on the side, fund your fashion brand, or replace your salary, the FDGP podcast will help you get there. Listen in for actionable tips and strategies to kickstart or grow your career as a freelance fashion designer, build your confidence, and create the life you want. Hosted by $100k+ fashion freelancer Sew Heidi, the show features interviews and strategy sessions with successful freelance fashion designers from around the world who've ditched toxic fashion jobs and taken control of their own destinies. This is the only place to get REAL insights from REAL freelancers who have built REAL careers on their own terms. (Formerly the Successful Fashion Freelancer podcast.)