Victoria
Knew

What made you choose to study at NTU?
“NTU has a brilliant reputation for Textile Design, the course gives you the opportunity to explore four different specialisms of textiles, which other universities didn’t offer. The City Campus being located in the heart of a busy and vibrant city was a huge plus too!”

What did you enjoy most about your course?
“We were always encouraged to experiment and be our own designer. This allowed me to learn and grow with so much confidence throughout the three years.”

Did the course include any industry competitions?
“In Year Two I entered an industry competition with furniture company, Arlo & Jacob. I was lucky enough to win this competition and was offered two placements. Arlo & Jacob also bought one of my print designs which they used on a limited edition chair to celebrate their first birthday.”

How did you find the course staff?
“The course staff are brilliant and I wouldn’t have made it through my final year without the support of my main print tutor. She continually kept me motivated and had faith in my designs and ability, which helped me to achieve the best grade I possibly could.”

Did the course include any trips?
“We had opportunity to go to Paris in Year Two to visit the trade show Première Vision. This was a great experience and I gained so much inspiration for future projects by looking at all the different industry design stands.”

Can you tell us a little bit about your role at DFS?
“DFS approached me during my final year Degree Show and I now work for them as a junior textile designer. My main responsibilities include researching into future trends, rendering new sofa designs in new fabric types and designing certain accent fabrics for new collections.”

How did it feel to be part of the judging panel for the recent live project DFS set for our final year Textile Design students?
“It was really exciting and I couldn’t wait to see what the students had created for us! Although it also felt slightly strange being a judge and not being judged this time!

“I gained so much from entering competitions like this, from winning two placements to having my designs being out in the industry was a huge confidence boost. It’s always brilliant to put on your CV and shows employers you’re keen to learn and get involved. Even if you don’t win it’s always so helpful to hear encouraging comments and feedback from industry.”