Jen Lushbough

What I loved most about Immersion: Not only did I learn the technical skills I needed for surface pattern design, I also joined the most amazing community of creatives. The support and encouragement from this community is unreal. Meeting other people who are excited about surface design has been the fuel I needed to propel myself forward.

Before Immersion

A student in one of my knitting classes joined Flourish, and I thought it sounded fabulous. At the time, I was just a few years into running my own kid’s clothing business. I chose fabrics that reflected my fun and playful aesthetic, but it wasn’t ever exactly what I was looking for.

What if I designed my own prints? That sounded like a cool idea, but I had no idea where to begin, so I set the idea aside and moved on.

But I still had doubts about pursuing surface pattern design. I wasn’t an artist. I didn’t have an art degree. I knew nothing about Illustrator or licensing or revenue streams. I was too old, not cool enough, and I definitely had no business pursuing surface pattern design. Truth be told, I still didn’t even really know what surface pattern design could mean for me and my business.

Joining Immersion was a turning point for me. I’ve gone from never having used Illustrator, to having three completed collections ready for licensing.

I directed a brand photoshoot, which I never would have done without guidance and encouragement from the Immersion community. And my website and Instagram feed are both heading in the right direction.

The community that Bonnie fosters with her programs is such a gift.

I didn't expect it to be the thing that I loved the most, but the people and the community are what kept me inspired. I loved meeting so many amazing humans through my time in Immersion and in the Mentorship programs.

What’s on the horizon for me? I plan to join Immersion 2022 for two main reasons. First of all, the foundation I’ve created over the last year will really allow me to dig deeper into each lesson and I can’t wait to get back into the live calls and the community feed.