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Beyond Prints: The Many Talents of a Freelance Textile Designer

Writer's picture: Carolyn Quan DesignCarolyn Quan Design

Updated: Jan 30



When you think of a textile designer, the first thing that probably comes to mind is creating beautiful prints.


But guess what? A freelance textile designer can offer many skills and services beyond print design. Let’s dive into some exciting things we can do to bring your creative visions to life!


1. CAD (Computer-Aided Design)

Gone are the days of sketching everything by hand (though we still love a good doodle). CAD allows us to create precise and detailed designs digitally. Whether for prints, patterns, or even 3D models, CAD is a game-changer in the design process. It helps us visualise the final product and make adjustments with ease.

Print design and 3D pattern making by Carolyn Quan
Print design and 3D pattern making by Carolyn Quan

2. Embroidery

Who doesn’t love a bit of texture and dimension? Embroidery adds that extra oomph to your textiles. From delicate floral patterns to bold, statement pieces, embroidery can transform a simple fabric into a work of art. Plus, it’s a great way to add a touch of luxury and craftsmanship to your products.


Bead embroidery that I've created by hand!
Bead embroidery that I've created by hand!

3. Trend Research

Staying ahead of the curve is crucial in the fashion world. As textile designers, we dive deep into trend research to ensure your designs are fresh and relevant. We analyze colour palettes, patterns, and styles making waves in the industry, so your brand can stay on top of the latest trends.

Sample of a trend pack, customisable to your brand
Sample of a trend pack, customisable to your brand

4. Tee Graphics

T-shirts are a staple in everyone’s wardrobe, and having unique graphics can set your brand apart. Whether it’s quirky illustrations, bold typography, or intricate designs, we can create tee graphics that resonate with your audience and make a statement.

Tee graphics designed for sass and bide
Tee graphics designed for sass and bide

5. Embellishment

Sometimes, a little sparkle is all you need. Embellishments like sequins, beads, and rhinestones can add a touch of glamour to your textiles. We can design and apply these embellishments to create eye-catching and luxurious pieces that stand out in any collection.


Sequin embellishment map designed for sass and bide
Sequin embellishment map designed for sass and bide

6. Pattern Engineering

Creating a beautiful print is one thing, but ensuring it fits perfectly on a garment is another. Pattern engineering involves adjusting and aligning prints to look flawless on the final product. This includes matching seams, scaling designs, and ensuring the overall aesthetic is cohesive.

7. Colour Matching

Getting the colours just right is essential. We use colour-matching techniques to ensure that the hues in your designs are consistent and vibrant. This involves working with Pantone colours, dyeing processes, and digital colour calibration to achieve the perfect shade.


8. Consulting

Many freelance textile designers offer coaching and mentoring services for those new to the industry or looking to refine their skills. We can guide you through the design process, share industry insights, and help you navigate the challenges of building a successful brand.


So, there you have it! An experienced textile designer can be your secret weapon as a versatile creative powerhouse, ready to bring many skills to your projects. Whether you want to create stunning prints, add intricate details, or stay ahead of trends, we’ve got you covered.

Pick my brains and book a 1:1 coaching call with me!
Pick my brains and book a 1:1 coaching call with me!

Ready to take your designs to the next level? Contact me today, and let’s create something amazing together!

If you’re ready to bring your vision to life, I’d love to collaborate with you on custom print and textile design services that perfectly reflect your brand. As a freelance textile designer with years of experience in the fashion industry, I’m here to help you and your team streamline your design and sampling process so you can hit those sales targets!


You can view my portfolio here to get a feel for my work.

Need prints now? Sign up to view my Pattern Library!


Want to book a quick call? Leave a message here or send an email to: hello@carolynquan.design




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