Core Job Responsibilities

• Design Development: Creating original two-dimensional designs for fabrics used in clothing, home furnishings, and industrial products. This includes sketching by hand or using CAD software to develop seamless "repeats" (patterns that connect perfectly across long fabric lengths).
• Color & Material Selection: Developing color palettes using universal standards like Pantone to ensure accuracy during mass production. Designers must also select appropriate fibers (e.g., cotton, silk, synthetics) based on the fabric's intended use.
• Trend Research: Analyzing global fashion forecasts via platforms like WGSN or attending trade shows (e.g., Maison&Objet) to stay ahead of market demands.
• Technical Specifications: Preparing detailed "tech packs" that provide factories with specific instructions on weaving, knitting, printing, and dyeing processes.
• Sample Management: Overseeing the production of "strike-offs" (initial fabric samples) and providing feedback to technicians to refine the color or texture before final production.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Working closely with fashion designers, buying teams, and production managers to ensure designs are cost-effective and feasible for large-scale manufacturing. 

Key Skills & Software

• Design Software: Expert-level proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and industry-specific CAD tools for creating digital repeats.
• Technical Knowledge: Deep understanding of textile construction, including weave structures (twill, satin), knitting techniques, and diverse printing methods like screen or digital printing.
• Sustainability Awareness: Increasing focus on sourcing eco-friendly fibers and implementing low-impact dyeing or waste-reduction methods