New Designers Interview: Katie Rudd

Today we are delighted to bring you a designer interview with surface pattern designer and illustrator Katie Rudd, who exhibited at New Designers in London this summer.

When did your interest in design first start and how did that come about?

From a young age I have always loved drawing and creating illustrations but I first considered design as a career when I was studying Art and Design at College. After designing a collection of screen printed notebooks I began searching for degree courses that would allow me to explore print further. My love for design and print flourished from there!

What steps did you take to get to where you are now as a designer?

Whilst at university I tried to explore lots of different processes and techniques; laser cutting wood, dying fabrics and traditional screen printing to name just a few. Being an experimental designer helped me to realise my own style, as well as learning a wide range of skills!

How would you describe your style?

I would say my style is bold and illustrative. I love drawing characters that have their own personality as it gives my collections a story. My designs always start with detailed hand-drawn images before moving on to digital processes which I think gives my style a unique and personal edge. Living in the south-west of England I am often inspired by the countryside, which has given my work a traditional British country cottage style.

What kind of designer do you want to be known as?

Versatile, fun and unique! I would love to see my work applied to lots of different products, from interiors to stationary to fashion.

What are you currently working on?

I am currently in the very early stages of illustrating a series of children’s story books, something I have never done before. I am excited to explore a new area of the design industry and see where it takes me. I have just started to sketch out the main character, I am looking forward to discovering what he will look like!

I am also working on producing a range of soft furnishings for children’s interiors, featuring characters inspired by the British countryside such as hares and pheasants.

What advice would you give emerging designers wanting to build their portfolios?

Get involved with live briefs and competitions! It’s a great way to explore new ideas and markets. Even if your work isn’t successful for that particular client, you never know when it might be used in the future!

What would be your dream design gig?

I would absolutely love to see my wallpaper and textile designs used in a child’s bedroom! Seeing children enjoying my designs would give me a great sense of achievement.

Looking ahead what are your major goals for the next couple of years?

As a recent graduate my goals for the next couple of years are to explore as many pathways as I can, whether that be employment, illustrating children’s books or working as a designer maker. As long as I am designing I am happy!

If you were a pattern what kind of a pattern would you be and why?

I would be a cheery and sunny floral of some sorts. Flowers always put a smile on my face and they are my all-time favourite thing to draw!

My name is Katie Rudd and I am a surface pattern designer and illustrator. I grew up in Cornwall surrounded by beautiful beaches and luscious green fields which has influenced my design work greatly as I find inspiration mainly from natural forms. As a designer I like to draw from my own experiences to develop a theme for my work, whether it be a cold windy walk on the beach, or a trip through the countryside on a steam train.