My internship with Emily Carter London, made possible through the UKFT x Haberdashers’ Bursary, was an invaluable experience. It provided first-hand insight into running a successful textile brand, strengthened my creative and technical skills, and helped shape my future ambitions within the industry.
After completing my MA in Textiles at the Royal College of Art, I was eager to deepen my understanding of the commercial design world. While I had gained experience in embroidery design, sales and marketing, I wanted to broaden my knowledge of textile print design and understand how a successful creative business operates. This internship came at exactly the right time, offering the opportunity to learn directly from an established designer while building on the skills developed during my studies.
Emily Carter creates intricately illustrated prints inspired by nature and storytelling, transforming hand-drawn artwork into richly coloured collections of scarves, accessories and homeware. It was a privilege to work alongside her and learn from a designer whose work celebrates the narrative potential of print, craftsmanship and artistry. At a time when artificial intelligence is increasingly shaping the creative industries, Emily’s commitment to hand-drawn design remains central to her brand’s identity and integrity. This prompted reflection on the evolving landscape of print design, the relationship between AI and creative practice, and the importance of preserving traditional artistry.
Throughout the internship, I gained hands-on experience in print research and development, transforming archival illustrations into repeat patterns, designing print placements for fashion and homeware, and using Adobe Photoshop to edit, recolour and refine hand-rendered artwork. I also conducted market research and supported social media content strategy. These experiences significantly developed my digital design skills while providing insight into licensing, collaborations and the commercial realities of running an independent creative business.
Working in a dynamic studio environment deepened my understanding of the journey from concept to product and the balance between creativity and commercial viability. I learnt how ideas are developed into collections, how they respond to market demands, and the dedication required to build and sustain a successful independent brand.
The support of the UKFT x Haberdashers’ Bursary was instrumental. Relocating from Somerset to London was a significant financial commitment, and the bursary enabled me to focus fully on my professional development and the opportunities the city offers.
Looking back, this internship has strengthened my confidence, expanded my industry knowledge, and reaffirmed my ambition to establish my own brand in the future. I leave with a richer skill set, renewed creative momentum, and a clearer sense of direction as a designer.
