Summarize the following:
Include a copy of any certifications or degrees that you have as well as an updated copy of your resume. Place these documents at the end of your portfolio in case potential clients want to know about where you went to school, where you've worked, and what your certifications are. If you have any reviews or references, include them on the very last page of your portfolio. It won't come up all the time, but it's good to have proof that you're a responsible and adept designer should a potential client ask. You can include 2-3 professional references as well in case any freelance work comes along. Compile your images on a flash drive and take it to a print shop or bookmaker. Explain that you're creating an interior design portfolio and work with the print expert to lay the images and text out in a layout that looks right to you. Once you're happy with the layout, pay to have 3-5 copies of your portfolio printed. This may cost $40-100 depending on the options you choose, but the finished product will look incredible! Keep it simple when it comes to the cover. A black leather cover with your name on the front will work just fine. The focus should be on what's inside, not outside! Keep the digital copy of the layout in case you ever need to have additional copies printed. Instead of paying to get the portfolio printed, you can print the images out on high-end paper and have the pages laminated. Use a hole puncher or slide the images into protective sleeves and place them in a binder. Be sure to keep this portfolio in a safe location so that you don't need to do make it a second time! This is more cost effective than having the portfolio professionally printed, and it's a great option if you want to go with a more DIY, authentic option. Stuff 5-10 business cards inside a pocket somewhere so that you can pull them out a moment's notice. This is also key if you plan on attending any job fairs so that you can hand out your contact information quickly. As a designer, make sure that your business cards reflect your design philosophy. A simple black and white card with an elegant typeface is great if you're a more modern or minimalistic designer, for example.
Put your credentials and resume after your work. Keep testimonials and references at the very end of the portfolio. Have the portfolio professionally printed and bound for a cleaner look. Print the images and place them in a binder to do it yourself. Place a few business cards somewhere in the portfolio to hand them out quickly.