The Benefits And Challenges of Working From Home as An Artist
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 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.
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16:29
The Key To Standing Out As A Surface Pattern Designer In a Crowded Market
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 market has changed in the time that I've been a professional designer Why I believe there are LOTS of opportunities available and that there's never been a better time to start a surface pattern design business! What it takes to stand out in the current market - and what is no longer going to cut it Why it's important to treat your design work as a business and not a hobby if you want to succeed - and what that mindset shift looks like. Creating beautiful designs is not enough in 2025... Your designs the way that you create and run your business need to be elevated to stand out - and I'm here to show you how to do it! Listen to the full episode to learn how to shift from a hobby designer to a thriving successful surface pattern design business owner!
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15:47
The Importance of Diversifying Your Income as a Surface Pattern Designer
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 sustainable and thriving creative business. I help you explore how diversifying can safeguard your business and provide greater financial stability, creative freedom, and growth opportunities - and I share some ideas on how you can do it! I cover: Why diversification reduces risk and future-proofs your design career. A variety of income streams to explore, including licensing, direct-to-consumer sales, digital products, teaching, and collaborations. How to get started with small, manageable steps toward diversifying your income right away. Tune in for practical advice and inspiring ideas to help you build a more resilient and rewarding career in surface pattern design!
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18:13
What Can Help You Become a Successful Surface Pattern Designer in 2025
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 working even when things go wrong in every way possible The number one trait that you need to have in order to become successful How to deal with failure, pick yourself back up from it, and keep going! (and details or exactly what I do when I fail at something!) Listen to this episode if you want to make this New Year a better year for your surface pattern design business as well as your mental health as an aspiring artist!
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10:13
Will AI Replace Surface Pattern Designers?
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 why I believe we should be using it. How some designers I know personally are changing how they create their artwork because of AI And the one priceless element and advantage humans have that AI will never have! If you feel worried about the impact of AI on your surface pattern design business dreams and goals, this episode is for you!
Design and Shine will bring you conversations about the creative design process, being a successful creative entrepreneur, stepping into the mindset of a successful designer and all things pattern design.
Hosted by Rachelle Holowko who is a surface pattern designer, artist, educator and leader of a beautiful global community of designers and creatives.
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