Birgitta was born and raised on a farm in Västmanland, where she developed her deep love for animals and plants. Her interest in visual arts emerged early and was encouraged by an excellent art teacher in elementary school. In 1979, she graduated from the textile program at Konstfack and has since worked as a freelance pattern illustrator. Birgitta's patterns can be found on both wallpapers and fabrics.

She sees herself as a storyteller through art and design. Her patterns and illustrations are graphic and colorful, rich in detail, and often have a humorous twist.

Her first contact with Ekelund was at the textile fair in Sollentuna in 1996, and shortly thereafter, her first designs, Tall Cats and Long Dogs, were launched.