Nicole Tupesis
owner + designer
Nik J Designs came to be in the Fall of 2011. After a move from Chicago to Madison I was lucky to have the opportunity for a career change. Always having an unexplored creative side, I inherited my grandmother’s old Viking Husqvarna sewing machine taught myself how to sew and haven’t looked back. As I have continued to grow and learn in this business I have refined my skills and interests. Transitioning into textile design was a natural one for me.
THE PROCESS
Each of my textiles start with the sketch pad. From here graphic images are created and patterns come to life. My designs are digitally printed on eco-friendly fabrics. I then meticulously sew all my products in my Madison, WI studio.
THE FABRICS
Inspired by my Scandinavian background, my husbands Latvian roots and our love of travel, I take traditional Latvian folk symbols to create modern prints. My designs have simple and natural shapes with great pops of color.
THE DESIGNER
I use pattern and color in creative ways to elevate everyday items into something fun and unexpected. The transition into textile design was a natural one for me. Now working on my sixth collection, I continue to refine my design process for both my textiles and the products I create.