From Corporate Banking to Creative Bliss: How I Found My True Colours in Surface Design
Krafty Chameleon Surface Design Studio
Leaving behind the world of corporate banking for the vibrant world of surface pattern design may seem like an unlikely leap — but for me, it was a shift from spreadsheets to soul work. This is the story of how I swapped suits for sketchbooks, boardrooms for botanical prints, and found my true creative calling in the colourful world of surface design.
Why I Left Corporate Banking for a Creative Career in Design
For years, I’ve lived in the corporate world — a world built on routine, tension, aggression, and regulatory deadlines. I was really good at it, and from the outside, everything looked not only polished and put together but successful and growing. But inside, I was craving something different: something that was actually me….creativity, colour, and a sense of self-expression. There’s no space for that in a corporate environment and 20 years of dialling that back and suppressing the creativity was starting to affect me mentally and physically.
I spent my evenings and weekends drawing, designing, and dreaming about a different way of doing things — one where creativity wasn’t confined to the margins. Over time, the pull was too strong to ignore. I wanted a career that aligned with my values and brought joy to both me and those who I worked with; that’s not corporate finance.
The Leap from Numbers to Patterns: My Career Change Journey
Making a creative career change is never easy — especially when you’re stepping away from stability. But the moment I allowed myself to be brace and imagine a new future, doors started to open. I learned everything I could about surface pattern design, and slowly started building a portfolio. I had to put my inner saboteur gremlin in time out and just keep drawing; through the things that didn’t spark and into my own style and something that felt like what I needed the world to see.
At first, it felt like starting from scratch. I had to relearn the rules of entrepreneurship, build a creative brand, and navigate a whole new industry. But the more I created, the more everything clicked into place. I realised that the structure and discipline I’d developed in my corporate life actually helped me as a designer — whether planning product collections or managing client deadlines.
Finding My Voice: From Business Suits to Botanical Prints
Krafty Chameleon was born out of a desire to bring joyful, expressive, and versatile designs into the world. I wanted to create patterns that tell stories — rich in colour, a little bit whimsical, and always full of charm. My experience in corporate life gives me a unique perspective: I understand the demands of business and the power of strong branding. I know it takes more than something beautiful but that without that beauty there isn’t anything to begin with.
My signature style blends vibrant palettes, playful motifs, and a touch of art deco elegance. Whether it's a surface pattern for textiles, wallpaper, stationery, or branding, each design is crafted to make your product or space feel full of life and personality.
A Creative Business Rooted in Real-Life Experience
Now, I get to collaborate with small businesses, handmade makers, creative entrepreneurs, and anyone who wants to bring more personality and joy to their brand or products. My clients are often people like me — people who took a leap into creativity, who love quality design that has heart and personality, and who want their visuals to tell a story.
Through Krafty Chameleon, I offer:
Surface pattern designs ready to license
Custom pattern design for brands, makers, and retailers
Creative collaborations that celebrate colour, storytelling, and thoughtful design
Encouragement for Others Dreaming of a Creative Leap
If you’re stuck in a job that doesn’t light you up or you’re craving a creative outlet, I see you. I’ve been there. Changing paths isn’t easy, but it is possible — and it can lead to something more fulfilling than you imagined.
You don’t need to have it all figured out. Just start with curiosity. Sketch something. Write something. Explore a side project. That’s where the spark begins. It only needs to be a tiny ember to start something; you don’t have to know where it’s going to end up. Listen to your heart and let it lead.
Let’s Connect
Are you dreaming of a career in creativity? Thinking about launching a product with standout surface design? I’d love to hear your story, swap ideas, and see how we can work together.
🌈 Connect with me to chat creative journeys, colour palettes, or potential projects: rachelanne@thekraftychameleon.com