The Benefits And Challenges of Working From Home as An Artist
Release Date: 02/25/2025
The Benefits And Challenges of Working From Home as An Artist
Design and Shine
I’ve been working from home for years, and while I absolutely love it, I’ve also had to figure out how to make it work for me. When I first started, I was so motivated—it felt amazing to do what I love! But as my life has changed, so have my routines, and I’ve learned a lot about what it really takes to stay inspired and productive. In this episode, I’m sharing the lessons I’ve learned about working from home, including how to structure your day around your natural rhythm, ways to stay connected when you start feeling isolated, and why taking breaks can actually boost your...
info_outline
The Key To Standing Out As A Surface Pattern Designer In a Crowded Market
Design and Shine
It's true that the surface pattern design market may seem oversaturated with many talented designers and that it could make it more difficult to sell your designs... But it's also true that more opportunities are available than ever before because of how crowded the market has become -- and in this episode of the Design and Shine podcast, I share exactly how you can find them! I share tips and strategies that will help you stand out as a professional designer no matter how much competition you encounter. Listen to this episode to find out: The pros and cons of how the surface pattern design...
info_outline
The Importance of Diversifying Your Income as a Surface Pattern Designer
Design and Shine
Are you relying on just ONE source of income? If so, it's fair to say you're taking a risk - the past few years with all that's happened in the world have definitely taught us that! Things like: The unpredictable nature of industry trends, especially with the shift in technology and the introduction of AI Uncertainty in the world (with things like the 2020 global pandemic!) Economic downturns and the rising cost of living So in this week's episode of Design & Shine, I explore why diversifying your income as a surface pattern designer is a good idea for creating a...
info_outline
What Can Help You Become a Successful Surface Pattern Designer in 2025
Design and Shine
Happy New Year! In case you did not achieve your goals last year or are not feeling as confident about your ability to become successful this New Year, I've created a new Design & Shine podcast episode to help you get into a more empowered and positive mindset. In this episode, I share my beliefs about what it REALLY takes to become a successful surface pattern designer and artist: What successful people have in common that helps them become and stay successful despite setbacks and hardship What people who fail have in common Questions to ask yourself that can help you continue...
info_outline
Will AI Replace Surface Pattern Designers?
Design and Shine
If you're like many surface pattern designers I know, you may be worried about the impact of AI - will it replace us? Is there any way to compete with it? Will we lose business because of it? You're not alone if you're worried - this is a super hot topic at the moment, so I wanted to come in this week on the Design & Shine podcast to share my views on it. I'm hoping I can reassure you with a fresh perspective on: The impact of AI on the surface pattern design industry - how will it change how designs are made and sold - or not! How we can use AI to our advantage and...
info_outline
How To Pitch Your Surface Pattern Design To Companies
Design and Shine
I'll be honest—pitching your surface pattern designs to companies can feel downright terrifying. I’ve been there and I know how difficult it can be to hit send on an email! It’s intimidating to put your work out into the world and face the possibility of rejection. But every designer feels that way, and you’re not alone! In this episode of the Design & Shine podcast, I’m sharing tips and actionable steps to help you pitch your surface pattern designs with confidence. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your process, I’ve got you covered. Here’s what...
info_outline
Why Your 'Why' is the Key to Thriving in Business
Design and Shine
There's one thing that successful surface pattern design business owners have that unsuccessful ones who give up trying to succeed almost ALWAYS have: a 'WHY.'' In this episode of the Design & Shine podcast, I talk about why having a 'why' you choose to have a business at all is so critical to your ability to succeed. I share my personal 'why' and a habit that I have that helps me keep going despite disappointment or setbacks in my business. I also give you some critical questions to ask yourself to help you gain some clarity on your 'why' if you're not sure about what it may be! ...
info_outline
How I Became a Self-Employed Surface Pattern Designer
Design and Shine
If you've ever wondered how to become a successfully self-employed surface pattern designer and course creator, this episode of the Design & Shine podcast is for you! I share my personal journey on how I got started as an employee to becoming a university teacher, and then on to self-employment as an online course creator. Listen to this episode to learn: What it's like to work as a professional employee in the surface pattern design industry The advantages and disadvantages of employment and why I decided to transition to freelance designer The pros and cons of putting...
info_outline
How to Choose Colours That Will Help Your Surface Pattern Designs Sell
Design and Shine
If you're struggling to make your color palettes work, this episode is for YOU! In this episode of the Design & Shine Podcast, I’m breaking down the BIGGEST mistakes designers make with color and sharing my top tips to help you create stunning, cohesive palettes that POP! Listen to this episode to learn: The importance of colour in design and the primary reasons consumers are drawn to or repelled by the colours in a design. The 3 most common mistakes new designers make in creating a cohesive colour palette How to improve your use of colour including how to experiment...
info_outline
How I Avoided Burnout And Renewed Joy In My Business
Design and Shine
Last year I came very close to experiencing burnout in my surface pattern design business... I'd got to the point where things had begun to feel too heavy, hard, and demanding. Everything seemed to be taking me further and further away from the things that mattered the most to me, from my daily art practice to time with my family. When I started to become resentful of my business, that is when I knew I had to take a step back. And so I did - and what an amazing decision that was! I'm excited to be back now for Season 3 of the podcast and am kicking things off by sharing what...
info_outlineI’ve been working from home for years, and while I absolutely love it, I’ve also had to figure out how to make it work for me.
When I first started, I was so motivated—it felt amazing to do what I love!
But as my life has changed, so have my routines, and I’ve learned a lot about what it really takes to stay inspired and productive.
In this episode, I’m sharing the lessons I’ve learned about working from home, including how to structure your day around your natural rhythm, ways to stay connected when you start feeling isolated, and why taking breaks can actually boost your creativity.
If you work from home (or want to), I hope this episode helps you create a routine that supports both your work and your well-being.