You can begin developing your portfolio in high school with hobby and project work. As your skills develop, your portfolio improves.

In many cases you have to pay a fee in addition to regular course tuition. The fee covers the cost of art materials, which include dyes, fabrics, wool, and other materials.

In some programs you learn how to build your own loom.

Many programs offer personal studio space to fiber arts students. Usually this is for junior- and senior-level students.

Most BFA and MFA programs require that you display your finished pieces in a showing at the school's local gallery. Also, some schools allow you to sell your work in shows that are open to the public.

Many fiber, textile and weaving artists learn their art by working as helpers for experienced artists.

Independent art schools may focus more intensively on studio work and career preparation. Colleges and universities typically require certain general courses in addition to studio art requirements.

Most people with an art degree in an area of fiber arts become both professional artists and teachers. Many provide private instruction or teach at community colleges and local art centers, where classes are offered to the public.