Textile Design BA

Sabrina O'Neil
Oct 14
4 min read

Textile Design is the creative and technical process of designing and producing fabrics, patterns, and materials used in fashion, interiors, and industrial applications. It involves exploring texture, colour, form, and surface through a range of methods such as print, weave, knit, and digital design.

A Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Textile Design allows students to combine artistic creativity with technical skill. The degree encourages experimentation with materials and processes, while developing an understanding of design principles, sustainability, and the role of textiles in contemporary culture and industry.

Why Study Textile Design?

There are many reasons why students choose to study Textile Design:

A passion for art, fashion, and material design.
The opportunity to explore creativity through tactile and visual processes.
Hands-on experience with traditional and digital design techniques.
The chance to develop personal style and build a professional design portfolio.
Engagement with sustainability and innovation in fabric production.
Preparation for careers in fashion, interiors, product design, and creative industries.

Textile Design degrees attract students who are both artistic and practical, with an interest in how materials influence aesthetics, function, and culture.

Course Duration and Structure

In the UK, a BA in Textile Design typically takes three years of full-time study. Some universities offer a four-year course that includes a professional placement or year abroad.

A typical course structure includes:

Year 1: Introduction to textile techniques including drawing, colour theory, fabric construction, and design development. Students explore print, weave, and knit, as well as digital tools such as CAD and Photoshop.

Year 2: Intermediate study focusing on design identity, innovation, and research. Students develop specialist skills in one or more areas such as printed textiles, knitted textiles, or surface design.

Year 3: Advanced project work and professional portfolio development. Students complete an independent design collection or final major project, often exhibited at degree shows or design fairs.

Many courses include industry collaborations, live briefs, and opportunities to work with professional designers and manufacturers.

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements differ by institution but generally include one of the following:

A Levels: Often including Art, Design, or Textiles.
BTEC: A relevant Extended Diploma in Art and Design, Fashion, or Textiles.
International Baccalaureate (IB): Including Higher Level Art or Design subjects.
Other qualifications: Foundation Diploma in Art and Design or equivalent international qualifications.
Portfolio: Applicants are usually required to submit a portfolio showcasing creative work.
English language proficiency: Required for applicants whose first language is not English.

A foundation year in art and design may be recommended for applicants without prior design experience.

Teaching and Assessment

Textile Design degrees combine creative studio practice with technical workshops and academic study. Students learn through:

Studio-based projects and workshops
Lectures and seminars on design history and theory
Individual and group tutorials
Practical experimentation with materials and techniques
Collaborative and industry projects
Assessment methods typically include:
Design portfolios and sketchbooks
Practical projects and prototypes
Written essays and reflective journals
Presentations and critiques
A final-year design collection or exhibition project

Students are encouraged to develop their own creative voice while understanding commercial and sustainable contexts.

Skills You Will Develop

A degree in Textile Design develops a range of creative, technical, and professional skills, including:

Drawing, colour, and composition techniques.
Understanding of materials, fibres, and textile processes.
Expertise in print, weave, knit, or digital design.
Research, concept development, and design innovation.
Technical proficiency with software such as Adobe Creative Suite and CAD.
Creative problem-solving and experimentation.
Project management, collaboration, and presentation skills.

These skills prepare graduates for both design-focused and entrepreneurial careers.

Career Prospects

Textile Design graduates work in a wide range of creative industries, from fashion and interiors to product design and material innovation. Many also work freelance or start their own design labels.

Typical career paths include:

Textile and surface design
Fashion design and product development
Interior and furnishings design
Print and pattern design for fashion or homeware
Trend forecasting and colour consultancy
Textile technology and materials innovation
Styling, visual merchandising, or costume design
Teaching, arts education, or postgraduate research

Employers value Textile Design graduates for their creativity, technical knowledge, and understanding of trends, sustainability, and materials.

Tips for Prospective Students

Build a strong portfolio showcasing creativity, experimentation, and technical skill.
Visit galleries, exhibitions, and fashion shows to gather inspiration.
Learn basic sewing, weaving, or printmaking before starting your degree.
Research current trends in textiles, sustainability, and design technology.
Practise drawing and developing design ideas by hand and digitally.
Make the most of workshops, materials labs, and mentorship during your studies.

Course Variations

Universities offer a range of Textile Design-related degrees, including:

Textile Design (General): Covering all areas of textile creation.

Textiles and Fashion Design: Focused on fabrics for clothing and fashion applications.

Textiles and Surface Design: Exploring print, pattern, and material surfaces.

Printed, Knitted, or Woven Textiles: Specialised technical pathways.

Textile Innovation or Smart Textiles: Combining design with technology and sustainability.

Fashion and Textile Futures: Investigating materials research and design sustainability.

Year Abroad or Industry Placement: Opportunities to gain professional experience or study internationally.