Employment for industrial designers who work in furniture and related product manufacturing is expected to decline through 2028, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Most openings will result from the need to replace designers who leave the industry. Some new jobs will emerge because a growing number of consumers are interested in purchasing furniture that is not just utilitarian but also fashionable and stylish.

Trade has become more global, and there are more markets available to U.S. manufacturers. Furniture trade in the United States now competes with that of Europe. The big furniture companies are getting bigger, and they will hire new staff designers, or contract them as freelancers. This growth is occurring as the U.S. economy has resumed steady growth and consumers are able to afford to furnish their homes as they want and are becoming more design conscious. This trend is evidenced by the popularity of television networks such as HGTV and design-oriented magazines like Better Homes & Gardens.

Freelancers who sell designs to companies that manufacture inexpensive furniture on a large scale can collect royalties based on sales of the product. There is a growing trend among collectors in buying "one-off" (that is, unique) pieces of furniture and limited-production furniture. If your interest is in designing unusual work with an emphasis on beauty and artistry, this collecting trend might work to your advantage.

Furniture Designers

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