Textiles: embroidery and embellishment

About this course

Participants investigate embroidery and embellishment through demonstrations, practical exercises, sampling and design sessions. The course covers hand embroidery, hand and machine pleating, punch needle, machine embroidery, machine embellishment and freehand bead weaving. Research into practising artists and designers informs work with sketchbooks, moodboards and samples. Teaching combines demonstrations, discussions, handouts, individual tutorials and group feedback. Learners develop a chosen concept, subject or object through research and experimentation, producing a connected body of embroidered and embellished textile work.

What you'll learn

• Apply a range of hand and machine embroidery and embellishment techniques
• Develop a textile concept through research, design and practical experimentation
• Create samples that combine techniques in response to a chosen subject, object or concept
• Maintain visual research and development records using sketchbooks and moodboards
• Evaluate work and discuss individual creative practice through feedback

Is this course right for you?

The course is designed for complete beginners as well as more experienced textile artists, makers and designers wishing to extend their practice. No prior knowledge is necessary. Learners should be able to follow simple written and verbal instructions and take part in group discussion, alongside individual practical work and tutorials.

• Suitable for learners developing from introductory techniques through to more advanced textile work
• Includes group discussions and feedback alongside individual tutorials
• Optional weekly tasks may be set for work between sessions

Before you go

• A sketchbook should be brought to each session.
• A camera-equipped mobile device or digital camera is advised for recording and reflecting on work processes.
• Basic materials and resources are available as part of the course, with threads, fabrics and embellishment materials provided as the course progresses.
• Learners may bring particular materials they would like to use, subject to discussion in class.