We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Ammi Lahtinen ("AL").
Ammi Lahtinen, a distinguished 36-year-old Finnish textile designer, brings over a decade of professional experience and a solid educational background to the forefront of her designs. With a passion for weaving and textile printing ignited at the age of 16, Ammi's journey of creativity and learning has taken her from vocational schooling to a BA in Textile Arts, enriched by a student exchange in London, and culminating in a Master's degree in the same field. Recognized by her peers as a captivating blend of creative ingenuity and systematic precision, Ammi's approach to design harmonizes the realms of artistry and technical guidelines. As she describes, "One can have the passion to create, which can be for the sole sake of art, self-expression, and admiration of beauty – but as a professional textile designer, I can turn the individual sketches into a production-ready color-coordinated collection that follows the possibilities and limitations of the chosen production machinery." Ammi's reputation is built upon her ability to deliver breathtaking pattern designs tailored to the specific needs of her clients, leveraging her adept use of color palettes and talent for creating cohesive pattern collections. With a keen eye for detail and a visionary grasp of the broader design landscape, Ammi is committed to delivering excellence in every project she undertakes.
Ammi Lahtinen Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Ammi Lahtinen.
Ammi Lahtinen Design - The Naptime Baby Blanket
Designer Interview of Ammi Lahtinen:
DI: Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?
AL : There’s a photo of me at around five years old, proudly announcing that I’m an artist. In the picture, I’m drawing something intensely, wearing an apron tied around my shoulders like a cape – apparently, that was what I believed a true artist should look like. Over time, my dream jobs evolved, but they always stayed within the creative field—architecture, interior design, fashion, and product design. By the time I reached secondary school, I knew I wanted to pursue something that combined creativity with tangible results. That led me to study textile design with a focus on interiors, and I’ve stayed on that path ever since.
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
AL : I’ve been working as a freelancer ever since I graduated with a Master’s in Textile Art in 2014. In the summer of 2021, I officially founded my own company. Starting my business felt both exciting and natural – it was mostly just a shift in how I handled invoicing, as the work itself continued as before. I focus mainly on surface pattern design and collection coordination, and I collaborate with clients from concept development to final delivery.
DI: What is "design" for you?
AL : To me, design is a way of thinking creatively. It's about combining aesthetics with functionality to create solutions that truly serve their users. It's seeing the big picture while carefully refining the details. Poor design can lead to frustration, miscommunication, even danger. So good design isn’t just about how something looks, it’s about how it works.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
AL : I especially love working on collections or full concepts. That’s when I get to explore a variety of colors, materials, patterns, and textures – and above all, create a mood. It’s incredibly rewarding to build a cohesive story through design elements.
DI: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
AL : The award-winning Naptime Blanket design project is one of my favorites. The client had a clear need and a strong production setup, and the design brief gave me both structure and creative freedom: That’s my favorite combination! Knowing the intended use of a pattern from the start allows me to design with purpose. For example, I can take the production method’s limitations into account early on.
DI: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
AL : During my vocational studies, I interned at a small interior product shop that also offered custom sewing services. After the internship, I worked there during the summers, creating store displays and designing custom products for customers using the store’s existing fabric range. The first patterns I designed were for my bachelor’s thesis project: Surface designs created for the Helsinki Olympic Stadium (2011).
DI: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
AL : I don’t think I could name just one favorite, the variety is what keeps me creatively inspired. That said, I’ve never grown tired of traditional printed textiles!
DI: When do you feel the most creative?
AL : Definitely in the evenings, when the creative flow really kicks in. That’s when I get immersed in drawing, and ideas start to branch off into other projects too. Creativity kind of feeds itself. Even though I work visually, my initial ideas are often recorded in words. I might write down a theme or a technical approach before sketching anything. Some ideas need to simmer a bit before they’re ready to be drawn.
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
AL : I believe good design is always holistic. But in practice, my work often centers on the visual side: Surface patterns, color palettes, and the feel of the textile. Most of my client companies already have years of experience in their field and often have a specific material and production technique in place for the product in question. So, my role is usually to create something that fits seamlessly into that framework. That said, there are exceptions. Through Patternsfrom Agency, we’ve also done consultations that go beyond visuals, helping clients define new materials, techniques, and even product selections.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
AL : Mostly postivie, but I do know that emotional rollercoaster as well, it is a part of the process. Sometimes I get frustrated when I have a very clear vision of how a line or texture should feel, but I just can’t quite capture it – yet. But when I do, it's deeply satisfying.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
AL : It's such a joyful and addictive feeling! The moment I send the final files to a client, I already start looking forward to seeing the finished product. There’s something incredibly special about seeing your design come to life – it's a reminder of why I love what I do.
DI: What makes a design successful?
AL : That’s a tough one! I’d say a successful design is one that sparks interest and resonates with people. There’s a fine line between art and design – good art can sometimes provoke strong negative emotions, while successful design tends to find that sweet spot where function and emotion meet. If it connects with its audience and serves its purpose, that’s a win in my book.
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
AL : Functionality, absolutely. Even the most beautiful object isn’t well designed if it can’t fulfill its intended purpose.
DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
AL : To stay informed. The world is constantly evolving, and the textile field needs to keep up with new practices. In Finland, we have excellent resources on circular economy, and I believe it's a designer's responsibility to stay up to date with new materials, technologies, and sustainable innovations.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
AL : Sustainability and circular economy need to become the standard, not just an exception. The future of design depends on how well we can integrate responsible practices on a larger scale – both in materials and production methods.
DI: When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
AL : I haven’t actively participated in exhibitions recently. During my studies at Aalto University (2011–2014), we held a few shows showcasing student work. But I’ve thought it would be interesting to create an exhibition around the design process itself. Thanks to Instagram, I now document and reflect on my process much more visually. Sometimes an idea begins as a rhythm, color, or shadow (something abstract) and I capture it through photos or notes. My feed is like a visual diary of inspiration.
DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
AL : Ideas? I have more than enough! I just wish I had more time for the actual creative process. Running a business also means doing the un-glamorous stuff, but it brings balance. A former colleague once described me as an interesting mix of creativity and analytical thinking—and I think she nailed it. Spreadsheets don’t scare me, but drawing is where my heart is. I collect inspiration constantly, through images and words. In a way, I’ve built myself a personal creative library – just waiting for the right brief to bring an idea to life.
DI: How would you describe your design style? What made you explore more this style and what are the main characteristics of your style? What's your approach to design?
AL : My design style is hand-drawn and rooted in a love for detail. I create from observation and emotion, drawing inspiration especially from nature – often floral themes – but interpreting them through rhythm, light, and contrast rather than literal representation. A defining feature of my work is the balance between soft, organic lines and a thoughtful, structured composition. I’m drawn to gentle, rounded forms rather than sharp edges. The atmosphere in my designs can be described by my slogan: Blooming florals and soft surfaces.
DI: Where do you live? Do you feel the cultural heritage of your country affects your designs? What are the pros and cons during designing as a result of living in your country?
AL : I live in Finland, and yes – it definitely influences my work. We have a strong design legacy and an excellent education system in the field. That legacy is both inspiring and... occasionally a bit limiting. I used to work in a glass art gallery and noticed visitors often had very fixed ideas: if something resembled a 1950s piece, they saw it as derivative; if it didn’t, they wished it did. That made me realize how deeply embedded our national “design golden era” still is in the collective mindset.
DI: How do you work with companies?
AL : I mainly work with international clients through Patternsfrom Agency, a Finnish design agency founded in 2019 by Jenni Moberg and Kristiina Tergujeff. Their mission is to connect Finnish surface designers with the global market. Patternsfrom Agency is based in Kemiönsaari, Finland, and works with clients across Asia, Europe, and North America. They offer ready-made patterns, collection coordination, and custom design services—and I’m proud to be part of that network.
DI: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
AL : Choose someone whose style resonates with your brand – but also someone who can listen, ask the right questions, and adapt. A strong portfolio is important, but so is communication. A good designer brings not just visuals, but solutions. Give them context, trust their process.
DI: Can you talk a little about your design process?
AL : Sometimes patterns come intuitively, through play and exploration. Other times they are more structured and planned. I’m often inspired by small details in my surroundings: Colors, surfaces, light, shadows, rhythm. I take a lot of photos – my phone is full of textures and moments. These snapshots become visual notes that I return to when building collections or setting mood and color palettes.
DI: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
AL : One of the most meaningful is a second-hand dining set from Artek, gifted to me by a family friend. She wanted it to go to a home where design is appreciated. That thought adds emotional value that goes far beyond the object itself. Here in Finland, meaningful design often shows up in everyday life: Iittala, Marimekko, Arabia, Fiskars. I used to work at Iittala’s flagship store, so I also have memories attached to many of those pieces. That’s also why I love The Naptime Blanket, a pattern I designed for the Finnish maternity box in 2022. I’ve spotted it being used everywhere. Even three at once in a child health centre's waiting room! It’s a beautiful, practical piece that lasts beyond babyhood and often gets saved for the next generation. (Fun fact: The maternity package has been part of Finnish social policy since 1938. It even includes a mattress so the box can be used as a baby’s first bed.)
DI: Can you describe a day in your life?
AL : There are two kinds of mornings: if I’d love to sleep in, my toddler wakes up early. If I have an early start, then I need to wake him – and it’s not easy! Like a proper Finnish stereotype, my day always starts with coffee. After drop-off at daycare, I usually return to my home studio. Our son is two years old, and I’m still adjusting to how family life changes your creative rhythm. I used to be a night owl, but now, 8 to 4 works best. Evenings are family time, and I love it. Playing with Duplos and building sandcastles? Perfect for generating new design ideas!
DI: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
AL : Be patient, and stay true to your voice. Creativity doesn’t always follow a straight timeline, and that’s okay!
DI: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
AL : I’ve always had a strong inner compass about what I want to do, that’s the positive. But turning that into a business is the challenging part. Finding the balance between creative passion and practical execution takes effort, especially when wearing multiple hats as a solo entrepreneur.
DI: What is your "golden rule" in design?
AL : "Design should feel effortless – even if the process behind it isn’t."
DI: What skills are most important for a designer?
AL : The ability to see the big picture, problem-solving skills, a curious and experimental mindset, persistence, and a genuine desire to grow and develop are all essential qualities for a designer.
DI: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
AL : My toolbox includes both analog and digital tools. I often sketch by hand and later finalize designs using a drawing tablet and Adobe Photoshop & Illustrator. I take a lot of photographs for visual inspiration and build moodboards from them. My workflow also includes creating custom color palettes, usually using Pantone or CMYK codes.
DI: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
AL : Being a designer and an entrepreneur with a young child requires quite a bit of time management! I've learned to plan realistic schedules and accept that not every day can be maximally productive – and that's okay. Having clear work hours helps me stay focused and present both in work and in family life.
DI: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
AL : It varies a lot! The process depends on the brief, the technique, the materials and so on.
DI: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
AL : People often ask: “Where do you get your ideas?” The answer is – everywhere! From the texture of a wall to shadows on the ground or a color combination in nature. The real challenge is not finding inspiration, but having enough time to develop all the ideas.
DI: What was your most important job experience?
AL : Somewhat surprisingly, I would say it was a job outside of creative work. I worked in an organization promoting Finnish design, where I gained valuable experience not only in customer service but also in understanding the broad landscape of Finnish design: What’s available and how consumers perceive it. I believe everyone should at some point in their career try customer service or retail, as it offers essential insight into what that work really entails.
DI: Who are some of your clients?
AL : I work mainly through Patternsfrom Agency, which connects Finnish surface designers with international clients. My designs have been licensed by companies in Europe and Asia mainly for interior textiles. Client companies include, for example, Barker Textiles, Showa Nishikawa, Jibun Makura, Deconovo.
DI: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
AL : I especially enjoy the early creative stages – collecting inspiration, sketching, building moodboards, and developing patterns from initial ideas. That’s when the creative flow is strongest. I also love working on meaningful everyday products – things that people use, touch, and pass on.
DI: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
AL : I’d like to make more space for my own pattern collections and perhaps one day compile them into a physical format – like a book or an exhibition. I also want to continue growing my international network and focus on projects that feel purposeful and sustainable.
DI: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
AL : I mainly work independently, but in close collaboration with clients and through the Patternsfrom Agency team.
DI: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
AL : There’s a lot of talk right now about the rise of AI in visual design. As a kind of counterbalance, I’ve been feeling a strong pull toward starting my creative process more often “the old-fashioned way” – with pen and paper, instead of jumping straight to the screen. Even if I finalize everything digitally, I want to consciously slow down some parts of the process. It helps me reconnect with the physical act of drawing and gives space for ideas to grow more organically.
DI: How can people contact you?
AL : The easiest way is through my website www.ammilahtinen.fi or email ammi@ihanammin.fi