Textile Design student gains industry experience at Peagreen through UKFT’s MADE IT programme
11/03/2025
Rosie Spurrier, a second-year BA Textile Design student at Winchester School of Art, completed an internship with textile design & surface patterns studio Peagreen, as part of the UKFT’s 2023/24 MADE IT programme.
The MADE IT programme has been developed to enrich the production and sourcing knowledge of graduates and to illustrate the wealth of technical and creative roles available throughout the supply chain.
Rosie interned with textile design and surface pattern studio Peagreen, gaining valuable insight into the world of printed designs and textile patterns. During her two-month placement, she also developed a deeper understanding of how commissioned projects are managed, from initial client meetings to final outcomes, equipping her with essential industry knowledge and strong preparation for her final year.
‘’I was able to see first-hand how a business is run with a small team. I learnt that each team member is valuable and provides specific tools to keep the machine running. Peagreen was a perfect example of this as they have been a business for 30 years and are a very strong unit. They communicate and assist one another which enables the company to continue through adversities.’’
Upon completing the internship, Rosie gained more confidence in understanding prints and client expectations. The creative sessions at the studio also allowed her to explore drawing more freely, unlocking new potential.
‘’Having seen projects through with Peagreen, from client meetings to design and pitching the final work, I will be able to time manage and potentially create prints and patterns in a quicker time as this is so often requiredin the industry. Secondly, a big takeaway is that my drawing style prior to the internship was often very restricted. Creative sessions with Peagreen allowed me to ‘loosen up’ and allow for more mistakes.’’
”Since joining Peagreen, my confidence in the workplace has shifted positively. This was the first time I experienced working in a creative environment and although it felt daunting at first, I gradually got more comfortable. Furthermore, working in a small team meant that I was able to pick up tips from multiple artists. Each team member was able to teach me something about business and design.”
Peagreen is a Winchester-based textile design and surface pattern studio that has been creating patterns and prints for apparel, products, and interiors for over 20 years. The studio collaborates with international brands worldwide to deliver innovative designs.
For someone about to take up a placement, Rosie advised:
‘’ I’d say to absolutely go for it! Experience in the industry is invaluable and provides you with so many further experiences, insights and skills. The final year of my degree will be very different to how it would’ve been had I not completed an internship and this is because I’m now equipped with industry knowledge and connections.
”My time with Peagreen would not have been possible without the help from UKFT. I am very grateful to the organisation for providing me with the opportunity.’’
Discover Peagreen online:
About MADE IT
Ten university design students have undertaken paid internships at UK fashion and textile businesses including Peagreen, SIRPLUS, Pristine, Lyle & Scott, Trouble at Mill, EMIKO, Standing Ground, Amanda Kelly, Feben & Simon Stewart Clothing and London Embroidery Studio, as part of UKFT’s MADE IT scheme.
Students have been selected from the five participating universities on this year’s MADE IT programme: Winchester School of Art, the University of Bolton, the University of Westminster, Manchester Metropolitan University and Nottingham Trent University.
Supporting UK manufacturing
UKFT’s MADE IT campaign is generously supported by The Clothworkers’ Company and CapitB. It is part of UKFT’s broader aim of supporting the future of the UK manufacturing sector, which includes running projects to support growth and innovation, promoting and matchmaking businesses and ensuring that the next generation of skilled people entering the sector are being trained to the highest level.