How to become a textile designer
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
University
You could take a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in textile design. Other useful subjects include:
- fashion and textiles
- art and design
- textiles and surface design
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- a foundation diploma in art and design
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
You may be able to get into this career by studying for a college qualification like the Level 3 Diploma in Textile Design and Manufacture.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
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Apprenticeship
If you are interested in working with specialist technical textiles for industries like healthcare, manufacturing and construction, you could do a technical textile specialist higher apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Work
You could start work as a textile operative or design assistant, get relevant work experience and qualifications, and then move into textile design.
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Career tips
You'll need to present a design portfolio when you're looking for work. You can also use your portfolio to make job applications to companies whose products match your style.
Professional and industry bodies
You could join The Textile Institute and The Textile Society for professional development training.
Further information
You can find out more about careers and training in textile design through the Crafts Council.
You can explore creative careers through Discover Creative Careers.