City Lit textiles: mixed media

About this course

The course explores how images, materials and surface can be combined in mixed-media textiles. Participants develop ideas from a shared theme through visual research, drawing challenges, viewfinder composition, mood boards and mixed-media collage, using wet and dry drawing materials alongside hand and machine stitch. Fabrics, paper, plastic and other materials are used to investigate colour, texture and composition. Teaching includes demonstrations, samples, slideshows, handouts and group discussions. The latter part focuses on an individual project, with guidance and further techniques introduced as work develops. Projects may result in a finished piece or portfolio pieces.

What you'll learn

• Develop textile ideas through sketchbook research, drawing and visual planning
• Experiment with hand and machine stitch alongside mixed-media materials
• Assess the properties of different materials and textile techniques
• Translate research into samples and developed surface designs
• Produce resolved textile work based on a personal project

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for learners at all levels, with beginners welcome in the mixed-ability group. Those completely new to textiles or art and design may find an introductory beginners’ course useful first. Participation includes demonstrations, group discussion and individual project work, with learners expected to follow verbal and written safety instructions in English.

• Includes set homework such as collecting images, planning designs and developing samples
• The individual project requires some self-directed research and development outside class

Before you go

• Basic materials and resources are available, but learners may need additional fabrics, papers, threads or other materials for specific projects.
• A sketchbook is required for every session.
• Printing images for research may sometimes be useful, and a camera is also suggested.