I’ve been freelancing since graduating in 2009. I was really struggling to find any graduate design jobs, never mind get interviewed.
I chanced upon some technical drawing through an agency and went freelance because I could make more money. The drawing work led to a bit of furniture design, and even teaching design to inmates of a prison.
Unfortunately 2 years later this all dried up and I moved back home to Bristol where I eventually got a job at an engineering company and hated it. 6 months later, a company contacted me to work on a very big project that should last over a year, maybe into 2, and hopefully supply with more projects.
I’m always on the lookout for opportunities and new clients whilst I’ve got this big job. I’m not making lots of money but am generally enjoying the lifestyle. I think the one thing you need to freelance is patience as things don’t happen quickly, especially in this economy and if your young. It also helps to be opportunistic, determined, and driven.