How to Be A Surface Pattern Designer Without Going Back To College -

I often get asked if going back to college is the best way to become a designer.

If a design degree is what you are seeking, I will always encourage people to get one if they would like it. However, if you are more interested in working as a designer, there are certainly ways to bypass the college process.

In fact, this is precisely why I created Design Suite program.

So, let’s quickly talk about the college programs. If you have been to a typical four year college, the first two years are usually dedicated to prerequisite courses like math and english. The last two years are generally focused on the degree specific courses. When I taught design at the University of Minnesota, course work included foundational classes, packaging design, typography, color theory, and more.

Part of the reason we teach a wide variety of theoretical design classes at a university is to make sure students are getting a well-rounded education. If you are someone who wants that, a university degree is a great solution for you.

If you are more interested in digging in and designing now, then learning via online courses and programs is the best way to move forward. Many designers who want a more niched route are looking at becoming Cricut designers, surface pattern designers, sticker or printable designers, or another niche market.

So, do you need a design degree to become a designer? No. You do, however, need the right tools and knowledge. There are many online programs and courses that can help get you there.

Are you interested in maybe something in between University coursework but, at the same time, learning to design now to make money? My Design Suite was built to be the middleground between University level course work (niched down to teach practical tips) and business (learn to design for shops and making money while in the one year program). You can learn more in a Design Bootcamp! In these bootcamps, we provide some useful tips and discuss the Design Suite program in greater detail.