In this thirteenth in a series of mini-interviews, learn more about our Threads of Success speakers and their sessions!
On Sunday, October 27, from 11:20 am-12:05 pm, Pink will present “You Have Designed a Fabric Collection…Now What?”
Why did you want to participate in the Threads of Success conference?
I want to participate in this event because it’s an opportunity for me to share some of what I have learned navigating this industry. Getting in and figuring out what to do once you get there is difficult when you are starting out. If I can help new talent by de-mystifying some of that stuff then they can spend more time on their products. We are in constant need of new talent, and I don't want our industry to lose out on that talent because they can’t find the entrance.
What was the biggest challenge for you in breaking into this business?
It was getting people to see my less obvious skills. People can usually see my visual art talents, but I also knew that I could run a good business, be strategic, and create excitement around my brand. Those skills are really valuable to building a brand, but not the kind of thing that you can just tell someone. Proving my own concept took time, and getting other people to see the universe that I had in mind took dedication and a lot of patience.
What is the one piece of advice you wish you knew then that you do now?
The best advice ever is that “You don't need to be everything to everyone.” By trying to please the larger market, you are watering down your own vision, which is the only thing that can take you all the way to success. Some people don't like my bright colors and elaborate prints—which is great! If everything out there looked like my work, then there wouldn't be anything special about what I am doing. It's a matter of perspective.
What is the most important thing you hope people take away from your presentation?
I hope that my presentation gives perspective fabric designers an idea of what is expected of them to make their work successful. It’s not just drawing and taking pictures with people. It’s so much more than that and there are no limits to where this can take you.
For more on Tula and her work, visit www.tulapink.com
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