The Tribune

DESIGNER 101

By Teri M. Bethel

Being creative and producing fab designs is just a small portion of what makes a designer successful. Let us look at the differences between a successful and a mediocre designer and determine which one of the two we would want to be. Take a stroll with me and see if you recognize any of these characters; some of them you may have heard.

The mediocre designer says: It's good enough.

The successful designer says: It requires more work.

The mediocre designer says: No-one will notice.

The successful designer says: I see and I will correct it.

The mediocre designer says: I can get by with that.

The successful designer says: I'd like to improve that.

The mediocre designer says: Who can see under here?

The successful designer says: I use quality materials and workmanship even where you can't see.

The mediocre designer says: It'll last long enough.

The successful designer says: My product is created to last.

The mediocre designer says: Someone will buy it.

The successful designer says: It bear's my name; I won't sell it if it is not top quality.

The mediocre designer says: If it falls apart they got what they paid for.

The successful designer says: If it's well made I'll have a life-time client.

The mediocre designer says: I know how to do it; I don't need to learn anything more.

The successful designer says: When is the next class? I'll never stop improving my craft.

The mediocre designer says: I don't like it, but who cares.

The successful designer says: I love it and so will my clients.

The mediocre designer says: So it broke, too bad.

The successful designer says: So it broke, perhaps it can be repaired.

The mediocre designer says: You let it get nasty, why don't you clean it?

The successful designer says: Can I suggest a great maintenance product?

The mediocre designer says: I spent plenty money making this.

The successful designer says: You made a great investment.

The mediocre designer says: I knew you'd come in, my prices are cheap.

The successful designer says: Thank you for coming in, I appreciate your business.

The mediocre designer says: At this price let them cut their own threads.

The successful designer says: We offer finished work.

The mediocre designer says: You're paying for my air conditioning.

The successful designer says: I'm pleased that you are comfortable while you shop.

The mediocre designer says: This ain't Bubba's Bargain Mart!

The successful designer says: I'm unable to discount this product, but may I show you another item I am able to offer at a lower cost?

So which one of these characters would you say best fits your description? The old saying, "your attitude will determine your altitude" is really worth considering; just a thought for us designers.

Teri M. Bethel is a texture painting and handbag instructor. She is the designer of Teri Monique Handbags, a line of custom made art purses for ladies. For more information on painting or making a purse visit: ttp://www.paintwithtexture.com