Textile Designer Salary Guide
Textile Designers create the fabrics, prints, and surface patterns used in fashion collections. The role combines artistic creativity with technical knowledge of fibre properties, weaving and knitting techniques, dyeing processes, and finishing methods. With growing emphasis on sustainable materials, textile designers with expertise in organic, recycled, and innovative bio-based fibres are particularly sought after.
Salary ranges by experience
Approximate European market ranges in EUR. Figures as of 2026.
Figures based on job postings listed on Fashion Workplace, industry salary surveys, and publicly available compensation data from fashion employers across Europe.
Junior Textile Designer (0–2 years)
€28,000
€24,000 – €33,000 / year
Textile Designer (3–5 years)
€40,000
€33,000 – €50,000 / year
Senior Textile Designer (6–9 years)
€58,000
€50,000 – €70,000 / year
Head of Textiles / Print Director
€85,000
€70,000 – €110,000 / year
Key responsibilities
- Designing prints, patterns, and woven or knitted fabric constructions for seasonal collections
- Researching and developing new fabric qualities, including sustainable alternatives
- Creating colourways and managing colour standards across collections
- Working with mills and fabric suppliers to develop and sample fabrics
- Ensuring textile designs are technically feasible for production at scale
- Maintaining awareness of textile innovation, including bio-based and recycled fibres
Key skills
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Textile Designer earn in European fashion?
Textile Designers in European fashion typically earn €33,000–€50,000 at mid-level, with senior designers earning €50,000–€70,000. Heads of textiles or print directors at larger brands can earn €70,000–€110,000. Salaries vary by country and by whether the role is at a brand, retailer, or textile manufacturer.
What qualifications do I need to become a Textile Designer?
Most textile designers hold a degree in textile design, printed textiles, or a related discipline from a specialist art or design school. Technical knowledge of fibre properties, weaving/knitting, dyeing, and finishing is essential. Proficiency in design software (Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, specialist CAD tools) is expected. A strong portfolio demonstrating range and technical skill is typically the most important factor in hiring decisions.
Is sustainable textile knowledge in demand?
Sustainable textile knowledge is increasingly in demand across the fashion industry. Brands are looking for textile designers who understand organic and recycled fibres, low-impact dyeing processes, and sustainable finishing techniques. Experience with innovative materials such as bio-based fabrics, deadstock, and closed-loop fibres is a growing differentiator in the job market.
Find fashion roles at your target salary
Browse Textile Designer positions and other fashion roles at brands hiring across Europe.