Contemporary Millinery

About this course

The course explores specialist millinery materials, construction methods and finishing techniques for contemporary hats. Participants develop designs for hats and trimmings, research ideas and may negotiate individual project work with the tutor. Teaching combines whole-class instruction with demonstrations, technical discussions, materials-based activities and one-to-one feedback. The course also addresses sustainable approaches, including reducing waste, recycling and upcycling materials. Work takes place in a shared studio environment with access to specialist equipment following the required health and safety induction.

What you'll learn

• Work with a range of specialist millinery materials at intermediate level
• Construct hats using appropriate techniques and finishing methods
• Achieve a suitable fit across different hat shapes
• Develop original designs for hats and trimmings

Is this course right for you?

This course is intended for intermediate learners who have completed the provider’s Beginner’s Contemporary Millinery course or can demonstrate equivalent competence. It involves individual project development within a shared, collaborative studio setting, with some activities requiring standing at high tables.

• Previous millinery study or equivalent competence is required
• Fluent English reading, writing and comprehension are required
• Some studio activities involve standing at high tables
• The course includes individual project work alongside whole-class teaching

Before you go

• Students must bring a basic sewing kit, including hand-sewing needles, pins, a thimble, thread, tape measure, small jewellery pliers or wire cutters, fabric and paper scissors, and a pencil and notebook or sketch pad.
• Students must provide their own fabrics, trimmings and haberdashery. Pattern paper and card are available in the studio, and hat blocks can be signed out from the tutor.
• An apron is required to protect clothing.
• Some materials may be available for an additional fee.
• A health and safety induction is required before using machinery or specialist equipment.
• The studio has lift access to the first floor. Bottled water is permitted, but eating and drinking are not allowed in the fashion studios.
• Spray chemicals may be used during some sessions; learners with sensitivities to fumes or particles are advised to request further information.