The Make it in Design team love nothing more than to celebrate all of the wonderful work from our talented and amazing community.
The Live Hub – is our monthly membership club that is jam packed full of energy and dedication from our members each and every day.
The group is such a supportive, wonderful, magical place and we want to acknowledge that with our Member spotlight!
Today we showcase the work of Jenny Edden.
Tell us a little about how you got started in design
I studied Fashion and Surface Pattern at college and got a BA hons degree. I went on to design clothing in different areas of the industry (workwear, horseriding clothing and ladies wear). When my children were young I worked part time on my own craft business sewing personalized gifts.
What brings you joy?’
Colour and pattern brings me a lot of joy. I also enjoy sewing too. I love to draw and enjoy the creative process. Seeing it come to life in colour and repeat is so exciting! I do like seeing the designs mocked up on products.
Which is your favourite market(s) to design for and why?
I love designing for fashion, as it makes me happy to get feedback on things I have created. The happiness I can bring someone when they feel good in something I have designed is a great feeling.
I would love to design for the greetings/gift market or for home ware.
What are you working on currently?
I am currently working on my portfolio with a view to getting some freelance work. That is my dream. I am taking part in Winter School 2022 and have really enjoyed the challenge of each of the briefs so far.
How has MIID helped your work evolve /grow?
I have taken part in a few courses over the years. I have to say the workshop content is extremely helpful. I have learnt so much from watching these. The variation in design briefs as well, really pushing you out of your comfort zone.
I decided last year I was really going to dedicate myself to the creative journey and embarked on the Hallmark brief in the Make it in Design Hub. When it was completed it really sparked something in me to push on and do more.
Any aha moments during MIID journey you would like to share?
It would definitely be mastering skills in Photoshop. I knew a bit about it when I started my MIID journey. But my knowledge of the software is much better for being part of MIID! Creating mock ups was definitely an aha moment!
What are your key successes since finding MIID?
Developing my style is one of the key things I have discovered so far. Hopefully this will lead to getting some freelance work in the near future.
How would you describe MIID to a fellow designer looking to develop their design?
A supportive and nurturing learning experience with a range of courses to suit you which ever stage of your design journey you are at.
What’s your dream design gig?
I would really like to design for giftware or home furnishings. I have always wanted to do some work with Paperchase. Their collections of stationery are beautiful
Best tip/advice for MIID students – perseverance is key. Work towards your dream but don’t put pressure on yourself to get it right first time. Enjoy the creative process.
How do you stay motivated? When I am out and about I am always looking at what’s around me, taking pictures of inspiring things to save for later. Also in the shops I always make a mental note of things write things down that interest me as well. I draw when I can to catch a certain idea for later.
How do you balance other commitments and work? I try and do my work whilst my children are at school. I have been working for myself for some time in order to be there for my family. I will work on things in the evenings too if I can.
