Manipulated textiles using heat setting techniques

Create innovative subtle or dramatic fabrics using heat to permanently structure the surface. Explore the creative potential of crumpling, crushing, pole wrapping, stitching and colouring, tying in objects and using origami moulds to shape fabric.

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Key course information

Dates
13/05/12 - 27/05/12

Day(s)
Sun

Duration
3 weeks

Time
10:30 - 16:30

Fees
Full fee: £143^NC

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
VX121

Availability
Available
(status updated every 15 mins)

^NC: No concessionary fees available as there is no government funding for this course.

This course has started

It may still be possible to enrol on this course - please call 020 7831 7831 to discuss. Please note that you will have missed some course content and it may not be possible for the tutor to fully cover missed content with you. Please be advised that the published course fees will apply.

Course outline

What is the course about?

The course will introduce you to methods of stitching, pleating, folding, crumpling, crushing, and using moulds as a means of manipulating cloth and paper. Heat processes such as steaming, heat pressing and boiling will be used as a means to do this and you will have the opportunity to apply transfer colours to crushed surfaces. These methods will enable you to create surfaces and structures in fabric with an emphasis on repetition and rhythm and to extend your knowledge of the behavioural properties of materials.

What topics will we cover?

You will explore a number of techniques for altering and structuring the surface - such as using paper moulds, crumpling, crushing, stitching, colouring and pleating. The reformed fabrics will then be set into position by using steam, boiling or hot pressing. We will look at the behavioural properties of different fibres and their capacity to be set permanently or otherwise. Emphasis will be placed on rhythm, repetition, structure and surface. You will be encouraged to collect appropriate imagery which can aid inspiration and you will be introduced to the work of makers using these techniques.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

· Use methods of fabric manipulation such as crumpling, pole wrapping, tying, stitching
· Use heat processes as a means of giving the cloth a memory.
· Describe how different fibres react to heat setting
· Make and use a paper mould for setting fabric
· Colour crushed fabrics using transfer dyes
· Produce a series of samples demonstrating these techniques.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

No previous experience of manipulating surfaces or of working with textiles is necessary but you will need to have an interest in structure, surface and the handling of materials. The course is particularly suitable if you have an interest in fashion, textiles or new directions in jewellery, or if you simply want to come and see what it is all about. Ceramic students might also take these ideas back to ceramics through dipping fabric in slip.

You should be able to follow simple written and verbal instructions, demonstrations, hand-outs and health and safety information, and will be invited to take part in group discussion. You should be able to make basic measurements and calculations.

Please look at the rest of the course outline carefully to decide if you may benefit from support in your English and Maths skills to help you to take part fully in this class.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

Demonstration, group work, individual tuition, discussion, practical work, illustration with samples, visual presentation. You may want to prepare some samples outside of the class using the stitch techniques which you will be shown.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Basic materials and course notes are included. Additional materials such as synthetic fabrics of different weights and colours (such as felt, polyester taffeta, paper lame), should be brought in to suit specific needs or preference and to provide variation. Also small objects which can be tied into the fabric and which won’t melt when heated. You will also be asked to bring in sources of inspiration such as cuttings, natural objects etc. This will be discussed on the first session.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

The course is suitable for supporting or extending other textile and fashion related courses, and would also have an application to students with an interest in jewellery.

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2700

visualarts@citylit.ac.uk

Please email us for advice or call us during these times:

Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays - 9.00 -12.00 & 15:00-18:00

Thursdays - 9.00-12.00

Saturdays - 14.00-17.00

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.

Contact us

Visual arts

Tel: 020 7492 2700

visualarts@citylit.ac.uk

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