UPB Graduate Interview: Bridgette Burton

Today we are excited to share with you an interview with Bridgette Burton a graduate of The Ultimate Portfolio Builder which she took in September 2015.

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

I have been in love with design for as long as I can remember. One of my best memories is of me in 6^th grade sketching a profile of my teacher. I remember being surprised as to how well it turned out. Fast forward a few years to when I decided to learn to quilt at a local quilt shop. I learned so much about fabric from those ladies! The more quilts I made, the more I was drawn to design again. I researched how to design fabric, which led me to the Make It In Design courses. The rest is history!

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

I am completely self-taught. When I made the decision to make designing patterns my next career, I bought Illustrator and Photoshop and learned everything I could about them. I read books, blogs, watched tutorials, and learned through trial and error. I have taken several online courses lately to create artwork that expands my portfolio.

How would you describe your style?

I would hope that my style grows as I do! Right now I would describe my style as retro insired.

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

I want to be known as kind, keeping to deadlines, easy to work with, funny, and a little quirky kind of designer.

What are you working on currently?

I have just been accepted as a Kess Inhouse designer (yay!) and am currently working on a collection for their product lines. I am also designing a t-shirt collection inspired by my life here in California. Who doesn’t want to enjoy the outdoors in a super comfy t-shirt? And with 300 days of sunshine, I have a lot to be inspired by!

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

Keep designing. Even on the days that you doubt yourself. Take courses, online or in person. Be part of an artistic community.

What would be your dream design gig?

I would love to work with Pottery Barn or Target. I will throw a huge party on the day one of those happens!

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

I love goals! I would like to license or sell more of my designs, expand my business to teaching, and grow as a designer. Maybe learn to paint? Blog more frequently? The choices are endless really!

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

I would be a geometric pattern with floral accents. I am always moving in five hundred directions but have to be reminded to take a moment to enjoy, well…the flowers.

What was the most important lesson you took away from UPB?

There were so many, it’s hard to narrow it down! If I had to choose, I think that it would be character design. This is an element that I am lacking in my portfolio. The video tutorial was very helpful!

What difference did it make to have a supportive community of fellow students and how important do you think that will be going forward?

I am a big fan of being part of a community. The Facebook group is invaluable – not only for sharing work, but also for learning from others who may be a bit further in their career then you. It’s encouraging to see other designers reach their goals, and even better when you get to celebrate their successes!

Please tell us about your experience of the live briefs and student work reviews.

The student work review was the best part of the course in my opinion. Rachael was very thorough in her review of my work and it boosted my confidence. Since I am very new to design it was great to get positive and constructive criticism about my artwork.

By day, I design distribution projects for an electric utility. But, once I get home I am lucky enough to design surface patterns. I gather inspiration from the great outdoors and other random things I find along the way. I enjoy surrounding myself with color and beautiful patterns. I like to put my best foot forward. Thank goodness my other foot is there for balance, just in case things get a little crazy!