gilly
is a freelance Textile Designer and Artist. She completed her BA (Hons) Textile Design in the UK and has worked in the industry for over 15 years. Her knowledge is comprehensive. Working with retailers, wholesalers and manufacturers around the world, she has experienced every aspect of the design process - from conception to finished product. She is passionate about her work and seeks to attain the highest standards. Trained in colour and trend forecasting, Gilly regularly attends International Trade Fairs and design events. Working across homewares, interiors and furnishings her designs start with copious research and observation, followed by sketching, drawing and painting before utilising CAD software. The transformation from design to finished product is still an enormous thrill. She has worked closely with international manufacturers for many years and is adept at designing and developing product, liaising with suppliers to ensure timely and professional outcomes. She enjoys working collaboratively with her clients in UK/Europe, Australasia, Asia and North America, and has worked with and sold designs to many brands including:
Adairs, Sheridan, Bed Bath 'n Table, the Country Road Group, Target, Pillowtalk, MyHouse, Esprit, TJMaxx, Next and Laura Ashley.
She works closely with clients to fulfill bespoke commissions, as well as selling finished designs through her Pattern Library,
Services available:
Artwork development - Print and embroidery
Product development
Trend/colour forecasting
Repeat set-up for production
Re-working of Vintage samples/existing client designs
Print and Pattern Library
Please get in touch if you would like to work with her in any capacity.
Background:
A creative child, she was never happier than with a pencil in hand. This love of drawing, painting and mark making was something she always wanted to pursue. Upon undertaking a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design, she envisaged a career in which she could create every day. She went on to study BA (Hons) Textile Design at NTU School of Art, specialising in Print. Ultimately her belief that
“design can change lives - a print, pattern, combination of colours and textures, can lift spirits, inspire and awaken more positive emotions”
is one that continues to motivate her. She hopes her love for the creative process flows through into her designs.
She exhibited post degree at the renowned ‘New Designers’ in London. Here, she made her first contacts and sales in the industry. She was featured in article ‘Talent spotted’ in the ‘INTERIOR’ Journal. This led to an early freelance period, followed by international travel and work in Australia. With a love for experiencing different cultures, travel has not only inspired her design work, but has shaped her life. She has lived and worked in the UK, Australia and Indonesia, and has travelled extensively. Various projects have taken her to China, India, Africa, the US and Europe. She feels extraordinarily lucky that this 'work' is her passion.
Over the past 4 years she has returned to freelance, allowing her the freedom to design across different brands and product categories. She has welcomed this opportunity and continues to be excited by the possibilities it brings.