Image by https://www.oldbrandnew.com
Today’s Designer Interview is with Katja Ollendorff of Katja Designs who is a Surface Pattern Designer based in San Francisco.
When did your interest in design first start and how did that come about?
Oh gosh, probably when I first laid eyes on my yellow and green daisy wallpaper that I had as a kid in the 60s. I was always drawn to my Mom’s Vera scarves and I would spend hours on a windowpane quilt she had on her bed mesmerized by all the patterns. But the pivotal point was when I lived in Helsinki, Finland—the land of Marimekko and wonderful Scandinavian design. I’m sure it was there that I solidified my love for bold patterns and vibrant color combinations.
What steps did you take to get to where you are now as a designer?
I spent four years learning and experimenting, taking workshops, networking with other creative peers and people in the industry. I have spent tons of time in nature, perusing bookstores and libraries for inspiration, and poking around apparel, stationery and home decor stores to see what is out in the marketplace. And then of course there’s a lot of sketching, drawing and painting! I’m also not afraid to reach out and ask someone to take a look at my work. I love what I do and want to share it! Each person has a voice and you never know when someone will be looking for exactly what you’ve got to offer.
How would you describe your style?
My style is playful and colorful. But I have a wide range of designs—from folk-inspired, and kid friendly, to bold abstract and more relaxed for home decor. I always stay true to my inner voice but bring in variation by using different mediums, motifs and themes that are versatile across a range of markets.
Image by Guildery website https://www.guildery.
What kind of designer do you want to be known as?
I would like to be known as a designer with a versatile yet recognizable style. One that is vibrant, colorful and brings a smile to one’s face.
What are you currently working on?
I’m always designing. Whether there is a paying project on the books or not, I’m always adding to my portfolio, organizing, creating collections, experimenting with new techniques. I’m currently working on some holiday-themed designs as it’s almost that time of year! And I’m also opening a store on my site where there will be various items for sale with my designs. That’s coming very soon and I’m really excited about it.
Image by Noyo Home site https://noyohome.com/
What advice would you give emerging designers wanting to build their portfolios?
I think working with others is really important—being part of a supportive artist community is invaluable. Try to connect, be open and learn by collaborating with others. Work hard on your craft, take constructive criticisms and leave your ego at the door. Practice, networking and research all go a long way. Don’t just try to do what you see everyone else doing. Be aware of trends but try to lead with your own inner voice instead of following someone else’s. Also, make sure to have some organized filing system in place from the start. You may have only 20 designs now, but someday you may have 2,000. Trust me!
What would be your dream design gig?
Of course having my own brand and being able to create my own product line and fabric is the dream, but designing for Marimekko has always been the ultimate aspiration.
Looking ahead what are your major goals for the next couple of years?
I want to continue to hone my personal style while remaining open to any jobs as they come along. I don’t say no to much right now as gaining experience is really valuable—whether it’s a freelance job, a licensing deal or selling a design outright. I want to continue expanding my social media presence to increase my brand recognition. I will also add a shop to my website and hopefully generate more revenue.
If you were a pattern what kind of a pattern would you be and why?
A bright and modern folk floral because it has nostalgic touches of my past but is also very now, to reflect who I am today.
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I currently live in San Francisco, but the first half of my life was spent living the life of a Foreign Service family—in wonderful places such as Frankfurt, Helsinki and Paris. I was born in Germany, and I have always been influenced by travel and the cultures I was exposed to in my youth.
After 10 years working in Advertising, I switched gears to focus on my passion for textile design. I graduated from the Institute for Textile Print Design in Berkeley, CA (formerly CA School of Professional Fabric Design) after completing a two-year intensive curriculum followed by an additional two-year apprenticeship program. During that time I honed many painting skills in various mediums and gained proficiency in both Photoshop and Illustrator.
I’m currently a member of the Surface Pattern Design Guild which is run by some of my very talented friends and based right here in the Bay Area.
Website/blog www.katjaollendorff.com
Pinterest: katjao
Facebook katja designs
Instagram: @katjaollendorff
Instagram (design): @katja_designs
Twitter @katjaollendorff
Periscope @katjaollendorff
LinkedIn: katja ollendorff
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