Join textile artist Isabel Fletcher in an exploration of the three-dimensional world of textiles. Working with existing fabrics (from the ordinary to the unexpected), you will use magnifying glasses to observe how the original surface of a fabric expands to reveal shape and form. Working through a guided series of activities, including observational drawing and paper sculpture, you will capture these newly observed forms before translating them into experimental textiles. Isabel will demonstrate techniques used in her own practice to develop iterative textile making. The final body work will be a dynamic collection of drawings, paper sculpture and three-dimensional textile samples.

On the first day, we will study a range of textiles through observation and touch. Using drawing materials, you will carry out mark-making exercises to establish an understanding of texture, feeling and tonality. Next, you will make sculptures from white paper in response to texture and form of the observed fabrics. In the afternoon, you will be introduced to colour and textile creation by working through a series of three-dimensional techniques.

The second day will be focused on the making of your experimental textile samples using a range of materials, yarns and thread. To develop a wide body of work, samples will be roughly A4 size.

Included

On this course the tutor will supply some of the materials, including some fabric, yarns and thread. On this course the College will supply some of the materials, including charcoal and paper.

What students need to bring

• Sewing needles
• Pins
• A range of fabrics/materials (ideally plain in different weights/varieties. - You can be as experimental as you like)
• A range of coloured thread
• Thicker yarn if you have any
• Drawing materials (pencils, charcoal, graphite, sharpener)

Additional information

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

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  
 

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