Whether you're just starting out in surface pattern design or refining your direction, Print Life's courses and community guide you to create with intention, develop your style, and build a creative career.
Where we blend style + strategy to help surface pattern and textile designers strengthen their artistic voice, develop market aligned collections, and build a business of their own design.
Welcome to the Print Life
I'm Leslie Kenehan, founder of Print Life and host of the Print Life Podcast. I've spent nearly 20 years in the fashion print industry, going from struggling freelancer to in-house designer, to studio owner, and now print agent and online educator.
In 2020, when the world went quiet, I finally leaned into something I'd been dreaming about: helping surface pattern and textile designers move from overwhelm to clarity, with honest guidance, intention, and a more grounded approach to growth.
I've been where you are. I know how hard it can feel to find your niche and your style, and then market that art to the brands that want to buy it.
Print Life helps designers do just that. This is where I blend creative direction with real-world strategy, so you can strengthen your portfolio, pitch with confidence, and build a sustainable, purpose-led creative business from the inside out.
Let's turn your passion for design into a business that fits your life, not the other way around. Welcome to your Print Life!
Industry insights and creative inspiration from nearly 20 years as a freelancer, in-house designer, studio owner, and print agent. I help surface pattern and textile designers spot the gaps in their portfolios + pitches
You'll also get free resources and be the first to know when my programs open.
honest insight from nearly 20 years in the industry
The Print Life Membership is packed with design, sales, and marketing training, group support, and a global community of designers who love to learn & share. Searching for a support system and feedback loop as you navigate your surface design career? You've found it!
The Print Life Podcast is your go-to resource for insights into the fashion industry's world of surface pattern design. We cover everything from design paths to sales, marketing, and mindset to help you navigate your creative journey. Whether you're freelancing, working in-house, or just starting out, we've got you covered. Welcome to the Print Life Podcast!
you might be wondering where to start when it comes to actually monetizing your art in the world of fashion print design
If you're like many designers, you likely have stacks of work but are unsure about its quality, who to pitch to, or how to find your ideal clients
When I started out as a freelancer, I pieced things together and learned along the way, making countless mistakes. But there was value in every misstep. Now, I love sharing what I've learned—the successes and the failures—so you can move forward faster.
You can be a successful print designer without starving for your art, but it will require stepping out of your comfort zone. Embrace the discomfort, for it's there you'll find growth. And with that growth, you can build the life and career you've always dreamed of!
