What makes textile design a globally sought-after career

Apeejay College of Fine Arts (ACFA), Jalandhar, recently conducted a session to share strategies and guidance with students on establishing a successful career in the field of textiles. Dr Gagan Gambhir, assistant professor, Department of Textiles, ACFA, provided an insightful overview of the discipline, explaining how the study of textiles helps in creating innovative design solutions.

Textile Design encompasses the use of design technologies in working with fabrics, specifically focusing on the creation of designs for various textile products such as garments, floor coverings, sheets, and wraps. Textile designers navigate the interplay between media, materials, production methods, and public taste, leveraging this understanding to develop fabrics that meet specific needs and gain acceptance in the market.

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The responsibilities of a textile designer were also discussed, emphasising the importance of artistic skills and a deep understanding of fabric characteristics and production techniques. Designers employ their creativity and experience to produce designs and colorations, using traditional techniques like sketches and paintings. They also use modern textile design software such as Textronics, Ned Graphics, and Tukatech. This marriage of artistry and technology opens up new possibilities in the exciting world of textile design, where contemporary and stylish designs come to life.

Further, the use of printing and dyeing plays a significant role in textile design, making it a sought-after academic course in various parts of the world.

Textile Design is closely tied to current fashion trends and draws inspiration from diverse cultures. Designers often travel to capture different ideas and trends, infusing their work with fresh perspectives. With their expertise and specialised knowledge, designers can assume important roles in marketing and colour consulting as well.

Dr Gambhir highlighted the increasing demand for textile designers in India, which has created abundant opportunities for professionals in this field. The textile design industry offers a wide range of job roles for skilled designers, including colourists, design coordinators, consultants, directors of design, entrepreneurs, embroidery designers, fabric analysers, fashion designers, fabric resource managers, furnishing designers, freelance designers, garment designers, home stylists, printing and dyeing consultants, repeat artists, textile design assistants, textile design faculty, textile lab managers, and technical professionals.

In line with the session, Dr Neerja Dhingra, principal, ACFA, expressed the college’s commitment to not only providing education but also preparing students for the real market and ensuring their readiness for placement opportunities. At Apeejay, their primary goal is to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for successful careers in their chosen fields.