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    Sara Torabi, owner of Papillon Patterns, is a surface pattern designer based in Canada. Her creative purpose is to create art that brings joy and hope to lives all around the world. Inspired by the vibrant colors and beautiful nature of Canada, her work reflects the intricate details of the lines and curves she observes in her surroundings. Through her designs, she shares her love of art and nature, aiming to bring hope and happiness to those who enjoy her creations

    For more information about working together, visit:

    https://lesliekenehan.com/
    https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

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    In this episode of The Print Life Podcast, we're diving deep into the art of turning your social media audience into loyal clients. We'll explore the crucial differences between your audience, leads, and clients, and why understanding these distinctions is essential for building a successful creative business.

    Leslie breaks down actionable steps to identify who’s engaging with your content, how to nurture those relationships, and the importance of being prepared when your dream clients come knocking. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your strategy, this episode is packed with insights to help you grow a loyal and aligned audience that converts.

    Key Takeaways:

    Understanding the distinctions between your audience, leads, and clients.How to audit your current audience to ensure it aligns with your business goals.Practical steps to prepare your business for client conversions.Why a small, engaged audience can be more powerful than a large, unfocused one.

    Listen now and get ready to boost your social media strategy!

    For more information about working together, visit:

    https://lesliekenehan.com/
    https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

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    In this episode, join me to sit down with Karina Duncan, a talented textile designer who has carved out a unique space in the womenswear, resort, and swim markets with original, trend inspired print designs. With over six years of experience living and working in Portugal, Karina has honed her craft through both hand-painted and digital mediums. Starting her career as an in-house designer at a printing factory, Karina went on to work for an upcoming design studio in Braga before embarking on her freelance journey in 2021.

    Join us as Karina shares her insights on creating unique, lasting designs, working on consignment for studios, and building 1-1 relationships with her clients. We’ll delve into her passion for hand-painted florals, conversationals, and abstracts, and explore how she continues to make a lasting impression in the world of textile design. This is a must-listen episode for designers looking to blend creativity with commercial success!

    You can follow Karina at:
    https://www.instagram.com/karina.print/

    For more information about working together, visit:

    https://lesliekenehan.com/
    https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

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    In this episode we dive into the crucial role of market research in connecting with clients and boosting your sales as a surface pattern designer. Understanding the significance of knowing your market to establish strong relationships and make informed decisions that align with current trends and client needs.

    Learn why understanding your market is crucial for building client relationships.
    Strategies to develop designs that resonate with your target market and increase your magnetism in the marketplace.

    Key Takeaway:

    Mastering market research isn't just about knowing what to design—it's about developing a keen sense of what your client wants and how you can cater to those needs effectively.

    Leslie shares insights from her experience and the Print Life Membership, guiding you on how to leverage market research in your career as a surface pattern designer.


    For more information about working together, visit:

    https://lesliekenehan.com/
    https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

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    In this episode of the Print Life Podcast we are diving in to the power of niching down for creative entrepreneurs. Are you struggling to attract your dream clients or feeling overwhelmed by your business? It might be time to refine your focus.

    We will cover:

    The importance of narrowing your nicheHow to gain traction faster by specializingTips for streamlining your creative business to achieve sustainable growth

    Here's a sneak peek: "It’s important to start to look at our business. If it’s feeling like it’s running away from us, or if it’s not giving us what we need from it, and really ask ourselves, am I a little too broad in my offerings?"

    Tune in now to learn how focusing on your niche can transform your business and set you on the path to success!

    For more information about working together, visit:

    https://lesliekenehan.com/
    https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

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    In today's episode, we dive into a theme I am seeing not only within myself but within our creative community: the art of returning to ourselves. As we navigate different seasons of life, it's crucial to reconnect with the love for what we do, allowing us to be intentional and release the grip of burnout. We'll explore the importance of pulling back, reassessing, and realigning with our creative passions.

    We discuss how being intentional with our work and business is deeply rooted in feeling harmonious within our creative selves. Over time, the work you create will become significantly more impactful when you take the time to play, explore, and find simplicity and passion in your process.

    We'll also touch upon the current landscape of social media platforms, the rise of AI, and how to discern what deserves your energy and what doesn't. It's about not succumbing to fear and instead, reclaiming control over your creative journey. You are the master of your future, and this episode is here to remind you of that power.

    Enjoy the episode, and let's reconnect with the essence of our creative selves.

    For more information about working together, visit:

    https://lesliekenehan.com/
    https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

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    If you have ever found yourself looking ourward and allowing yourself to get tripped up on your journey when you begin comparing youreself to others? What if I told you that comparison can be a powerful tool for growth? Instead of judging yourself against others, try seeing it as a window into what's possible for you. When you shift your perspective, comparison becomes so expansive, not limiting.⁠

    So today, let's approach comparison with curiosity and excitement. See it as a glimpse of what you can create, and let it empower your path forward. ⁠

    Your creative potential really is endless. Let's keep pushing those boundaries and embracing growth.

    For more information about working together, visit:

    https://lesliekenehan.com/
    https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

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    In this episode, Leslie discusses the intricacies of building an email list and maintaining it for surface pattern designers. You will learn comprehensive strategies on how to effectively engage with an audience, convert leads, and maintain clients.

    For more information about working together, visit:

    https://lesliekenehan.com/
    https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

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    Join me this week to dive into the importance of understanding yourself as a creative and a business owner before building your surface pattern design business. Knowing what you enjoy and what you don't is crucial in crafting a business model that feels authentic and sustainable. We will explore various pathways for designers, from working with studios to running an online shop, and share insights on how to align your portfolio with the right market to attract your dream clients.







    For more information about working together, visit:

    https://lesliekenehan.com/
    https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

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    In this week's episode, I touch on the importance of creating a market-aligned portfolio, especially when pitching in the fashion industry. I also extend an invitation to my free webinar, where I'll be offering a DIY version of my signature course. This episode highlights how crucial it is to view pitching as a numbers game and to develop your art from the inside out to resonate with your target audience!

    For more information about working together, visit:

    https://lesliekenehan.com/
    https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

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    In this inspiring episode of the Print Life Podcast, I sit down with Catherine Wise, a seasoned fashion, print, and graphic designer. Catherine shares her journey from fine arts to becoming a trend book designer and eventually embracing a freelance career. Her experiences in teaching at UK fashion and textile courses and offering specialized training highlight the intersection of education and industry expertise. Catherine's story is not just about design but also about adapting and thriving through personal challenges, providing valuable insights for anyone in the creative field. Join me, Leslie Kenehan, for this engaging conversation on navigating the complexities of the print design industry.

    For more information about working together, visit:

    https://lesliekenehan.com/
    https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

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    Welcome to another episode of the Print Life podcast! I'm Leslie Kenehan, Creative Director at White Buffalo Studio. In this episode, I dive into what I believe are the five most important focus areas for surface pattern designers looking to build a thriving business. Whether you're just starting or pivoting to a new niche, this episode covers defining your style, layout mastery, market alignment, brand building, and the power of consistency. I'll share insights from my experience to help you navigate the journey of building a creative career and growing your business in this dynamic industry.

    Join me for actionable advice on enhancing your skills and mindset to attract dream clients, increase sales, and build a sustainable business.



    For more information about working together, visit:

    https://lesliekenehan.com/
    https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

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    Hi everyone, I'm Leslie Kenehan, your host of the Print Life podcast. In our 100th episode of the Print Life Podcast, I found it fitting that we discuss The Long Game and the truth about what really goes in to building a business you love.

    In this episode, we delve into the necessity of preparation to meet opportunities in surface pattern design. From identifying the right opportunities to understanding and preparing for your desired career path, I'll cover essential strategies for growth and sustainability. Tune in to discover how to attract dream clients, increase sales, and genuinely enjoy the process of growing your creative business. Join me as we debunk myths and set the stage for real, fulfilling success in the world of print design.

    For more information about working together, visit:

    https://lesliekenehan.com/
    https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

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    Welcome back to the Print Life podcast! In today's episode we will dive into the story of Rebecca Woolbright. Rebecca is a licensed surface pattern designer and the artist behind the brand Rebecca Jane Woolbright. Her goal is to wrap the world in color. She is obsessed with patterns and symmetry and enjoys the process of manufacturing her own products to sell in stores worldwide.

    After seven years creating art for products, she started guiding other artists in the process of sourcing their own products overseas through small groups, online courses and live summits.

    Rebecca shares how she embraced licensing, tackled manufacturing, and ventured into teaching others. We explore her unexpected journey from business ownership in Hawaii to becoming a surface pattern designer, her strategic approach to pitching and product placement, and the gratification of seeing her work in stores. Rebecca's story is a testament to the power of persistence, creativity, and learning from the journey. Tune in to hear how she balances product creation, licensing, and education to build a thriving creative business.

    Catch Rebecca on Instagram: @rebecca_jane_woolbright - and stay tuned for Rebecca's upcoming boot camp at manufacturerawesome.com

    For more information about working together, visit:

    https://lesliekenehan.com/
    https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

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    Join me for an exclusive conversation with Fashion Print Design Agent, Nadine Stenovitch. With over two decades of experience in the industry, Nadine brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. As the owner of The Scoop In Design, she represents some of the best print studios in London. But that's not all – when she's not curating stunning art in LA or managing her online shop on the Pattern Cloud, you'll find her in France, renovating a 200-year-old chateau alongside her husband and pup.

    Main Episode Points:

    Exploring the intricate world of fashion print design through Nadine's seasoned perspective.Delving into topics ranging from pricing strategies to cultivating a signature style in a competitive landscape.Gaining valuable insights into the evolving trends and transitions within the industry.Uncovering the secrets to success and longevity in a dynamic marketplace.

    Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring artist, there's something for everyone in today's episode.

    Thank you for tuning in. Let's dive into the conversation with Nadine Stenovitch!

    You can follow along for more at:

    https://www.instagram.com/thescoopindesign/?hl=en
    https://thescoop.thepatterncloud.com/home.php

    For more information about working together, visit:

    https://lesliekenehan.com/
    https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

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    Join me this week as we delve into a crucial aspect of success: the art of letting go. Often, we find ourselves holding our goals so tightly, yearning for quick results. However, in this episode, we explore how releasing that pressure can lead to greater achievements.

    Success often comes from finding a balance between ambition and patience. By letting go of the need for immediate results and embracing consistent practice, we can pave the way for long-term growth.

    Thank you for tuning in. Until next time!

    Leslie Kenehan

    For more information about working together, visit:

    https://lesliekenehan.com/
    https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

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    Welcome to another episode of the Print Life Podcast, where we delve into the realms of art, design, and the fashion industry. Today, we discuss a topic that is dear to our hearts - the significance of embracing artistic integrity and exploring design in all its forms.

    Main Episode Points:

    The idea of getting comfortable enough in your own artistic integrity to look at other artists' work.The importance of studying good design, art, and aesthetics in various forms: catwalk, surface pattern design, print design, graphic art, or graffiti art.The value of being informed by the catwalk and the marketplace, which can be just as beneficial and inspiring as other sources.The significance of understanding what our clients see, determining what they might be after for their next buys, and aligning with their audience's tastes.

    I hope this episode has inspired you to embrace artistic exploration and integrity in your own way in your work. If you'd like to discuss this topic further or join us on the podcast, don't hesitate to reach out and book a call.

    See you next time!

    Leslie Kenehan

    For more information about working together, visit:

    https://lesliekenehan.com/
    https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

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    In this episode we get to know Roberta Montorfano, founder of Betta Designs. Roberta is an Italian-Mexican artist. Raised in Como, Italy, she grew up steeped in the vivid interplay of colors, textiles, history, and art.

    For Roberta, the art of storytelling is embodied in design, art, photography, and colors.

    After immersing herself in textile design for five years in Italy, and actively participating in textile fairs across the globe, a turning point emerged in 2013. Fueled by a deep-seated passion and the pursuit of her dreams, she made the choice to pack her bags and set her sights on Sydney.

    After a few years of calling Australia home, Roberta created her studio, Betta Design in 2015. She believes that everyone can tell stories through design, art, photography and colours. That they are all a portrait of your soul, history, family and generation you carry with you.

    For more information about working together, visit:

    https://lesliekenehan.com/
    https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

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    Exploring the soulful journey of authenticity. Join us to deep dive into the significance of authenticity—the key to unlocking a style that is uniquely yours. This episode is a voyage of self-discovery within your creative process, an infusion of the unexpected, and a commitment to artistic integrity.

    Learn how revisiting your past works becomes a catalyst for discovering your authentic style. Embrace experimentation, and embark on a creative adventure that resonates with the essence of who you are. This episode is a tribute to the beauty of enjoying the process and finding joy in every creative endeavor.

    Let's dive in!

    For more information about working together, visit:

    https://lesliekenehan.com/
    https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/

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    In today's episode, we'll explore two distinct approaches to developing your signature style in surface pattern design. We'll discuss the importance of committing to a consistent practice and delve into the three phases that designers can repeatedly navigate to continually refine and explore their unique style. Join us as we uncover practical insights to shape your design journey. Ready to commit to your practice and explore the evolving phases of your design style? Let's dive in on Day 03 of The Style Series!

    For more information about working together, visit:

    https://lesliekenehan.com/
    https://www.instagram.com/lesliekenehan/