Case studies: Freelance designer/maker: Jenny

Jenny did a degree in printed textiles at Loughborough University. She secured a setting-up grant to establish her own business and now works as a designer-maker.

I decided while still at university that I wanted to set up my own business so that I’d have the freedom to take my design ideas forward and be independent in choosing what to produce. In the summer following my graduation, I worked at home producing samples of my printed textiles.

I needed funding to help start up my business and although I was initially unsuccessful in getting local Arts Council funding, they helped me with very practical information. Using a national directory of galleries I mailed out a traditional brown paper parcel including samples of my work on sale or return and a printed photo book. This initiative, together with local fairs, resulted in my first orders.

I applied to the Crafts Council  for a setting-up grant and, with matching funding from the Prince’s Trust, bought printing and sewing equipment to furnish the studio space that I’d found. My application to the Crafts Council was helped by the fact that I’d already had my designs bought by Harrods, Liberty’s and Designers Guild.

Part of the setting up grant was an opportunity to attend a three-day residential event focusing on essential elements of running a business, such as marketing and accounting. This proved very valuable as it hadn't played a significant part in my degree studies. I’ve also found the adviser at the local Inland Revenue office to be very helpful.

I was selected for 'One Year On', a satellite event run as part of New Designers. This was an excellent opportunity and several buyers were interested and I also met magazine writers and received press coverage that way.

There is an annual cycle to my work; I attend trade fairs in January and September and in the autumn, September to November, weekends are often busy with attending shows where I enjoy meeting my customers, the people who actually use my products. Over the summer, in July and August, I concentrate on designing my next collection and this quieter time allows me to develop my ideas and prepare for production. I also lecture in printed textiles at the local university on a part-time basis.