A furniture designer is a practical artist who creates pieces of furniture for functional or aesthetic uses in both interior and exterior spaces. As a furniture designer, you use a variety of methods to design and manufacture your work. Some designers create using traditional tools and materials, while others use powerful computer technology, such as AutoCAD, to visualize their designs before producing them. You may be self-employed as a craft designer, or work for a commercial furniture company. Your duties change based on your employment situation, but typically they include meeting with clients to discuss designs and communicating along the way to ensure they are satisfied. It’s essential to have an extensive portfolio which showcases your skills and experience as a furniture designer.