Job description and activities:

Textiles designers work in knit, weave and print to create two-dimensional designs that can be produced in a design repeat for the production of commercial or artistic fabrics or textile products.

Working in both industrial and non-industrial locations, they often specialize or work in a specialist context, within the textile industry. The two major fields are:

* Interiors (upholstery, soft furnishings and carpets);

* Fabrics for clothing (fashion or specialist, e.g. fire-proof).

Textile designers may also work in associated industry functions, for example, designing wrapping paper, packaging, greetings cards and ceramics.

Typical work activities include:

* making up sets of sample designs;

* working out a design formula for a group of samples;

* liaising with clients, technical staff, marketing and buying staff to plan and develop designs;

* Accurately interpreting and representing clients' ideas;

* producing sketches and design ranges for presentation to customers;

* assessing and approving completed items;

* working independently, if self-employed, or liaising closely with colleagues as part of a small team;

* using specialist computer aided design (CAD) software to produce a range of designs;

* experimenting with color, fabric and texture;

* maintaining up-to-date knowledge of new design and production techniques;

* developing new design concepts;

* ensuring that projects are completed on time;

* visiting sites and other sources of ideas for designs;

* sourcing fabrics and other materials at trade fairs, markets and antique shops;

* Attending trade shows, as a delegate or as an exhibitor - this may involve representing the company with a display or stand, or appraising the work of competitors;

* keeping up to date and spotting fashion trends in fabric design by reading forecasts in trade magazines and using internet resources;

* developing a network of business contacts;

* if self-employed, managing marketing, finances and day-to-day business activities.