Shauna
Mills

Before studying MA Textile Design Innovation, Shauna graduated from our BA (Hons) Fashion Knitwear Design and Knitted Textiles course in 2017.

What made you choose to study at NTU?
“The facilities within the School of Art & Design are amazing and the amount of opportunities and support the academic team provides makes you feel like they really care about your future and your aspirations to develop yourself as a designer.

“NTU has given me the opportunity to dive further into my area of interest through studying on the MA Textile Design Innovation. The staff are full of industry experience and give you a real expectation of what it is like working in the industry.”

What did you enjoy most about studying BA (Hons) Fashion Knitwear Design and Knitted Textiles?
“I most enjoyed the freedom to explore my own area of interest. You’re encouraged to look and explore new areas of knitwear and develop a personal connection with your work. I loved the excitement and enthusiasm the course gives you, making you want to become an individual designer.

“The wide range of contacts the course has really helped become familiar with industry life and the opportunity to complete a placement year is great for building valuable contacts.”

Can you tell us a little bit about the inspiration behind your graduate collection?
“Graphic Decay was inspired from my own photography of crackling paint and rust, driven by my use of vibrant colour and my love of texture. Then pushed forward into my own art work with a bold contrasting graphic dogtooth design. I transformed this artwork into a colourful, textural knitwear collection using colour as a way of polishing off the textures giving a bold contrasting look between the graphic clean hound tooth and textural knit.”

What was the highlight of your undergraduate degree?
“The highlight of my undergraduate was being selected for Graduate Fashion Week. I never thought that my collection would be chosen! It was a complete surprise but an amazing opportunity to showcase my work.”

What made you decide to stay at NTU and undertake an MA in textile Design Innovation?
“I decided to do my masters in Textile Design Innovation as after I had completed my undergraduate degree, I still felt there was more to learn and explore. I still had bundles of ideas and designs that I wanted to test out. I stayed at NTU as the University had the best knitwear and the staff have amazing experience and knowledge to share.”

How do you find the course staff?
“The course staff are the most well experienced and knowledgeable people. They get to know every student and will encourage you to achieve the highest level possible. They are the friendliest and supportive group of people, and you can talk to each and every one and they will listen.”

What did you think about the knitwear facilities available to you?
“The facilities that are available are fantastic – there’s plenty of machinery, studio space to work in and it’s a great atmosphere to be in.

“The library is amazing with a wide variety of books and great resources online to help you with your studies. The SU offers a range of sociable activities for students to attend and you can find a group of people who have similar interests and connect to them.”