Understanding Textile Design from Student’s Perspective

Textile designers work on the designs and patterns that are reproduced on fabrics and other commercial items. The creativity expressed by textile designers can be seen in the production of clothing, upholstery, linen, rugs, carpet and other fabric-based items. The designers work in the paper product industry and create various types of artistic expressions on wrapping paper, greeting cards, wallpapers and other kinds of packaging.

• Employment Opportunities in Textile Designing: 

There are many types of jobs in textile the industry which includes apparel stylist, assistant stylist, CAD designer or operator, design technician, fabric development specialist, lace designer, print designer, production equipment operator, textile artist, and textile designer. The textile designers collaborate with clients, technical specialists, marketing and retail buyers. They work on innovative designs and ways to execute them, create mock-ups of sample designs, project management and stay ahead of design trends.

• How to Look for Openings in Textile Design Jobs: 

Once you have completed the formal program of study related to textile design, one of the best resources is to contact the career service office at your school. The career counselors will get in touch with employers who are actively seeking for new posts in the industry. Explore career options on your own too. 

• Sign into Industry Jobs on Employment Sites: 

There is much employment websites and search engines which can help you find the textile design jobs. For instance, you can upload your resume at Career Builder and set up alerts to find the position that matches your interest. Then there is Indeed.com and Simply Hired which can help you find the right job. There are job boards like Apparel Search.com and Red Goldfish which inform you about open positions and internship opportunities in the apparel and fashion industries.      

• Training in Textile Design: 

Depending on your career goals and current experience, it is necessary to complete a degree in the field. If you have gained a significant amount of work experience and skill, a short-term certification can help you excel in your career. The University of Management and Technology in Pakistan offers BS Textile Design (BSTEX) degree with a specialization in Garment Manufacturing with effect from the Fall-2019 semester. The courses of the program offer detailed and in-depth knowledge of design developing textile sculptures, surface textile design, mixed media textiles and constructed textiles fulfilling the demands of home and fashion design industries. The students' complete hands-on work with various materials to make textiles such as knits, weaves, prints and color dyes. Students showcase their final thesis work through an exhibition creating an environment to attract the attention of respective industries.

• The Training on Job: 

A great deal of training for textile designing takes place on the job. The students get a chance to see equipment and technology which is industry-specific. Students must seek entry-level employment in the apparel or interior design industry. Internships offer a solid ground for long term career goals. They can do part-time positions in production, merchandising, graphic design, and other areas related to the field.

• Is Textile Design the Right Field for You: 

You are the only person who can decide if the textile design profession is meant for you. However, if you have artistic ability, a good taste for design, and you love working with patterns and fabric, the textile design may be the right option for you.