Textiles: constructing pattern, colouring cloth

What is the course about?

You will be introduced to a range of different ways to construct patterns and colour fabrics using heat transfer processes and simple hand made methods including mark-making, hand-cut stencils and collage.
This course will be an opportunity to discover new ways of working and develop ideas from initial designs and colour palettes into textile samples / artwork.

What will we cover?

- Making stencils and developing pattern
- Hand painting with disperse dyes and heat transfer inks
- Foil printing, flock printing, sublimation printing.
- Mixing and layering colours.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

- Experiment with pattern using stencils, layering and collage
- Develop a personal colour palette
- Make a selection of sublimation prints on various fabrics
- Embellish surface of fabric samples using foiling
- Demonstrate health and safety when working with dyes and using a heat press.

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

The course is suited for all levels and would suit a beginner as well as those with some or more experience of textiles or textile print. No particular skills are needed for this course, just enthusiasm to learn and experiment.

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

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

The course is taught through practical demonstrations, with a selection of hand-outs provided that explain any processes you will learn. There will also be a selection of books available for you to look at.
The tutor will show examples of her work and other artists using these techniques as well as a range of textile samples.

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

All materials are provided.
It is recommended you wear old clothes or, bring an apron for this course.

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

You can further develop your skills and interest in design through a range of textile courses here at the City Lit from City lit Textiles to printing with natural dyes, or explore surface design techniques using the Laser cutter or 3D printer.
Experienced students may wish to apply for the go on to City Lit advanced textiles course. Details on how to apply will be shared soon.

Please browse the website for all other upcoming courses.
General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Student Centre and Library on Monday to Friday from 12:00 – 14:00 then 16:00 – 18:00.