Paper folding: skills and techniques with Kate Colin

Ref: D1D36443

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About this course

Discover the basic principles of paper folding and learn all the necessary skills and techniques required to create a range of impressive three-dimensional geometric forms.

Course Description

This course is suitable for anyone interested in learning how to transform a flat sheet of paper into a multitude of geometric structures using just a few simple folds.

You will be introduced to the basic principles of paper folding and expertly guided through the process of creating a range of forms, including spiral folds, flat pleats and herringbone tessellations.

You will also make several ‘functional’ products, such as vase covers and hanging decorations, whilst exploring a variety of inspiring techniques and designs. We will look at the history of folding and the work of several contemporary paper folding artists to examine how the craft is currently used in fashion, architecture and design.

By the end of the course, you will be equipped with the skills and confidence to fold independently, experiment, design your own pieces and apply everything you have learnt to your own practice or discipline. This course is suitable for beginners, as well as those with some experience.?All tools and a range of high-quality pre-cut papers will be provided for use during the course.

Course Materials

Included

On this course the tutor will supply pre-cut papers and equipment for use during the course, including rulers, pencils, scissors, etc.

What students need to bring

  • Notebook, craft knife, pencil and eraser

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).

Timetable

Daily Timetable

Course teaching: 11am–5.15pm
Students arrive: 10.30am-11am (coffee optional)  
Morning teaching: 11am-1pm
Lunch break: 1pm-2pm (lunch is not included)
Afternoon teaching: 2pm-5.15pm (15 minute break, 3.30pm–3.45pm)
Teaching finishes: 5.15pm  
 

General Information

Short courses are open to anyone aged 18 and over. The course fee covers tuition and materials where stated. You will need to bring all other items listed under the ‘Materials to bring’ section.

Refreshments

Coffee and tea are included in the course fee, but you will need to bring lunch with you to eat in the refreshments room. There are also plenty of other local venues to purchase food.

Access

If you have any specific access needs, we will need to know about your access requirements in advance. Please tell us about your needs in confidence by emailing: [email protected] This venue has steps to the front reception, with limited access via a side gate to the ground floor. There is a small lift to higher floors or stairs.

Safety

Short course students are required to sign a safety compliance form as part of West Dean Health and Safety regulations.

Refunds and cancellations

Please refer to our terms & conditions below.

Disclaimer

The information given is accurate at the time of publication. However, West Dean College reserves the right to cancel or amend courses if circumstances require.

Terms & Conditions

Tutors

Kate Colin

Kate Colin is a paper artist and designer whose range of work is created through intricate hand scoring and folding techniques. She is a QEST scholar, a graduate of the Crafts Council’s Hothouse programme and regularly exhibits and teaches throughout the UK.

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Further study options

Take the next step in your creative practice, with foundation level to Masters in Fine Art study. 

Depending on your experience, start with an Online Foundation Certificate in Art and Design (one year, part-time), a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design made up of 10 short courses taken over two years (part-time) or advance your learning with our BA (Hons) Art and Contemporary Craft: Materials, Making, and Place (six years part-time). All will help you develop core skills, find direction in your practice and build an impressive portfolio in preparation for artist opportunities or higher-level study. See all degree and diploma courses.