Portfolio Design Lab is a site about what it takes to become and be a professional crafts person (and by that I mean someone who makes a living from the objects she or he designs and makes).

I’m Sidsel Dorph-Jensen – a Designer-Silversmith, and the two things I’m most passionate about are the design process and running my business. Which is why I want to challenge 2 very strong myths surrounding the art & craft industry:

“Designers & artists are people with a special gift & ability to mysteriously transform ideas into beautiful art.”

NOT TRUE!

Everybody can learn to turn ideas into designs – you just need to learn a few step by step design principles!

“Designer-makers & artists don’t understand all the business-stuff – because it doesn’t go hand in hand with being creative.”

NOT TRUE!

Being creative is a huge advantage in business, because you naturally look at – and do things differently. We were just never taught it properly for our field.

We can all  make our dreams come true,  however sometimes we need a little help making that happen and that’s where I come in. When I was in my early teens, I really wanted to become a designer-maker. Well, today I’m living that dream, and I’m here to tell you that you can too!

My aim is to inspire you to differentiate yourself as a creative professional and live your dream.

What’s next?

The best thing to do if you want to boost you creative business is to start by signing up for my weekly newsletter – it’s packed with actionable tips about all the business stuff – and some design as well.

You can sign up here!