Liz May is a surface pattern designer working from her own firm, Liz May Designs from Cornwall. Liz sketches all of her designs by hand and then re-sketches them using a graphic style pen, to preserve the hand-drawn look. She has loved sketching and doodling for as long as she can remember, but it wasn’t until she discovered that designs could be printed on products that her childhood hobby turned into a vocation. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Liz May.
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1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?
I love colour, pattern and retro designs, especially from the fifties and Scandinavian design, so I use a lot of this as inspiration. Colour is a must in my designs.
2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process? It can sometimes be a variety of ways, if it is for a brief, I initially do some research on places such as Pinterest, before beginning to design. But often I might start doodling on paper initially.
3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?
I really do love my clients, and respect them a lot. I like it when I have a lot of creative freedom on a project, but then again I like it when my client might have something particular in mind, I respect that as well. I am always happy when my client is happy, and I admire when my client gives me feedback that helps push the project along.
4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?
I find that using Pinterest really helps me, as does looking at design competitions such as Tigerprint and Spoonflower, I find this helps as it makes me design to a specific brief, and more importantly gives me insight into future trends. It works as well, as even if I don’t win, I can use the design for a future purpose.
5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
I have always loved design, without sounding clique. I think I have come to this point through always striving to doing what I love, and constantly pushing myself, as well as attending courses. Try to seek help with your portfolio and gain as much experience as possible, as it will really help. Luckily I have met some great people who have helped me along my way.
