Sara Boccaccini Meadows
Sara Boccaccini Meadows is a print designer and illustrator living in Brooklyn, NY. Originally from the rolling hills of the Peak District, England, she graduated from Leeds Collage of Art with a 1st class Hons in Textiles and Surface Pattern. Sara takes inspiration from nature and the tiny details in her everyday surroundings to create unique and quirky print illustrations. Her prints have been used by top fashion brands including Etro, DVF, Zara, H&M, DKNY, Urban Outfitters, Rebecca Taylor, Oshkosh, Prism, Guess, and Rebecca Minkoff. We just can't get enough of her work!
Tell me about your path to becoming a freelance pattern designer and illustrator.
After studying Textiles and Surface Pattern at Leeds Collage of Art, UK, I traveled around Asia and eventually moved to Sydney, Australia after being offered an internship with Karolina York studio. Karolina York taught me a lot about the fashion and textile world and after my internship I was offered a job in the studio. I worked with Karolina York for almost 2 years and after I left I continued to freelance whilst traveling. This gave me a lot of freedom and inspiration with my designs.
I am now settled in NYC where I divide my time between freelancing/consulting in house with brands and working on my own design projects.
In the beginning, how did you attract your first good clients?
Many clients have reached out to me through word of mouth, I've been lucky to have some great connections in the print world.
Do you have any tips for being your most productive?
I am a very good procrastinator. I'm my most productive when I wake up early, grab a coffee, and keep a structure to my day. Lots of lists!
What has been your greatest struggle as a freelancer so far?
I love the hands on side to my job- painting, drawing, designing. I struggle with everything else and have to push myself to stay on top of the non creative stuff!
What is your favorite thing about freelance?
Freedom to choose my own schedule. This has been extremely important now I have a daughter and I like to be able to travel and take trips during the week. Most of my inspiration comes from nature and exploring new places.
Do you have any tips for dealing with the nitty-gritty business details?
This is still my biggest challenge. I hire an accountant to help with this as much as possible.
Since you are your own boss, do you have any advice for maintaining a work-life balance?
I like to collaborate with friends and designers who inspire me. Having people I believe in keeps the balance and stops work from feeling like work! I am always open to new collaborations and projects, from university students to established brands.
"I like to collaborate with friends and designers who inspire me. Having people I believe in keeps the balance and stops work from feeling like work!"
Fill in the blank: The 3 greatest attributes you need to be a freelance creative are:
Imagination , ambition, a positive attitude.
