Textile designer : Training

Training is often gained on the job - for example, if you are starting in a commercial design studio, you will probably need training in practical processes. Training provision will depend on the amount of practical and commercial experience you already have and the time that more experienced staff have available.

In addition to general textile design courses, such as the diploma at Level 3 in Design and Craft and the higher professional diploma at Level 4 in Creative Crafts, there are specialist courses in, for example, constructed textiles, tapestry and carpet design. Specialist courses are available at all levels and through a range of learning options. For details of relevant courses see Prospects Postgraduate Directory  and other providers such as City & Guilds , the School of Stitched Textiles (SST)  or the Textile Centre of Excellence .

If you are interested in computer-aided design (CAD), the Computer Textile Design Group (CTDG)  is a useful forum that also provides advice and produces workbooks to help you develop various techniques.

Membership of relevant professional bodies provides access to further opportunities for continuing professional development (CPD) and is useful for establishing industry contacts. The Textile Institute  and the Chartered Society of Designers (CSD) , for example, offer membership at various levels, depending on your qualifications and experience in the industry.