Job Family: Design, Arts and Crafts

People who work in this sector use their creative and original ideas to affect the usefulness and appearance of almost everything we see and use in our daily lives.

• Designers work on products ranging from clothes to cars, kitchen appliances, magazines and mobile phones, making sure that they are visually attractive, functional and, where possible, environmentally friendly.
• Artists produce paintings, sculpture and other pieces that decorate homes and public spaces.
• Craftspeople, such as engravers, picture framers and model makers, produce products using traditional techniques or innovative ideas and materials.

Employees in this sector usually work regular hours, but should be willing to work additional hours in order to meet deadlines. People who are self-employed often have no set working hours, but may need to be available at weekends to sell their work to the public. Working environments include offices, studios and workshops. It may be possible to work from home.

Employers include design companies and product manufacturers, ranging from large organisations to very small businesses. Competition for jobs is intense. About half of the workers in the design, arts and crafts sector are self-employed.

In the UK, over 500,000 people work in this sector in total, with around 300,000 in craft work and 180,000 in design. Many craftworkers and artists have more than one job to help them boost their income. Artists and craft businesses are found in both urban and rural areas, with a larger concentration in tourist areas. There are opportunities for designers throughout the UK, especially in large cities and towns, but 31 per cent are based in London.

Creativity, an eye for shape and colour, and good spatial awareness are important for many jobs. Computer skills are essential for most design work. Drawing ability and practical skills are often useful, and craftworkers need to be good at working with their hands. People who are self-employed also need business skills.

There are job opportunities at every entry level. Some entrants have few formal qualifications, but there is strong competition for jobs in this sector and many enter with specific art and design qualifications. There are many relevant design, art and craft courses ranging from GCSEs/S grades to those leading to degrees and postgraduate qualifications. Employers and college admissions tutors usually expect to see a portfolio of work as well.

Many jobs allow training while in work and can lead to NVQs/SVQs at Levels 2 to 4, or to HNC/HND or degree level qualifications. Some employers may offer Apprenticeships. Self-employed people have to fund their own training and development.

Promotion may involve working on more important projects or progressing to management positions. Self-employed workers progress by building their business, establishing their reputation and ensuring they have a steady supply of work.

Why not have a look at other Job Family articles as they may hold information on related jobs.