Nina Raby-Jones is a surface pattern designer and illustrator from Manchester, UK.
“I have a passion for all things print and pattern! My designs are often inspired by my love of nature, the changing seasons and my surrounding landscape. I often find inspiration whilst out on family dog walks with Boo the Schnoodle. When I am not designing I also have a passion for cooking, I love nothing more than creating a feast for my family and friends, and enjoying cocktails or you will find me crocheting something, a new found skill!
My creative journey started a few moons ago now, after I completed a BA [Hons] Textiles Degree. I started my career working for high street retailer suppliers, and then went on to work as an in house designer for a leading UK high street brand for many years. I now work independently and love to collaborate or license my designs with brands and retailers on a range of products.
Nina’s experience taking UPB :
“I took part in the live UPB class in 2018. It was a natural progression to take UPB after completing the other MIID courses, which I had found invaluable on my journey, transitioning to working under my own name. I found UPB was the icing on the cake! I loved the design industry live briefs, giving you the opportunity and experience to design for a wide range of products and industries. The portfolio review was amazing, for developing my designs, the feedback was invaluable, it gave me a real boost of confidence going forward. One of the designs I created whilst taking the course, I used in one of my fabric collections, which I licensed with Dashwood studios. The community of like minded designers who are there along your journey are an incredible part of the experience as well”.
How it started for Nina in 2018:
Nina’s accomplishments between taking UPB and now:
- Licensed two fabric collections with Dashwood Studios, and currently developing a third.
- Has licensed 4 designs on notebooks with Denik. With one of the designs being used for the BE KIND by Ellen Autumn subscription box.
- Nina has opened an Etsy shop, and have a selection of designs on Thortful and recently became part of their ambassador program.
How it’s going in 2024:
Find out more about Nina here:
- How to build a commercial and lucrative body of design work
- How to attract and secure the right buyers and clients
- How to work with clients effectively and build a strategy
- How to get trade show ready
- How to progress your digital design skills to advanced level
- Plus so much more!
