19 Fashion Crafts courses in Brentwood

BAG AND ACCESSORY DESIGN COURSE: WHAT IS THIS COURSE ABOUT?This fashion design course for beginners and intermediates is a group class aimed to support aspiring designers or designers in need of guidance in designing viable and realistic bags and/or accessories.This course enables you to understand essential skills required to become a fashion bag designer ans well as guiding you through the steps necessary for designing, developing, prototyping and manufacturing your collection. WHY THIS IS NOT THE USUAL ‘ACCESSORY DESIGN’ COURSEThis course is designed by a team of designers, prototype makers and handbag manufacturers.It is both a theoretical and practical introductory course which will teach you what the industry requires from designers in order to be able to understand and correctly translate their ideas into finished products.This course is focused on giving you an overview on the complexity and extensiveness of the process that designing handbags requires.The course will assist you in understanding the prerequisites before and during the design of your styles. This knowledge will enable you to circumvent a lengthy, costly, and occasionally frustrating process when it comes time to prototype and manufacture your collection. WHY WE CREATED A FASHION DESIGN COURSEAfter years of experience in designing and developing collections for our customers, we realised that there was a substantial lack of clear information available about what designing a collection of handbags and fashion accessories truly requires and how it is achieved.We created this course with the aim of helping the new generation of designers, as well as designers which are still struggling, in developing their ideas and empower them to clearly and correctly communicate them to whoever is going to prototype their collection.We essentially have created this tuition based on the needs and problems of our customers, hoping to promote and facilitate creatives in the realisation of their projects. WHO IS THIS COURSE FOR?This course is designed for aspiring designers and professionals seeking expert advice from the industry. It caters to those in need of guidance to optimise their design process or understand the nuances of working as a fashion accessory designer.No previous experience is required. WHAT WILL BE TAUGHT?The designing classes cover various topics, including:Preliminary considerations before designing on the role and skills of a designerUnderstanding the concept and use of a moodboardAnatomy of a handbag, including lining and hardwearImportance of construction and finishing optionsDifferences and purposes of illustrations vs technical drawingsSketching techniques, including drawing in perspective and technical drawingsProduct development for a specific designUnderstanding what technical information the prototype maker requiresOverview of the prototyping process HOW WILL THE ABOVE BE TAUGHT:The class will take place in person at our London studio and the lesson will alternate between theoretical lessons and practical exercises. INCLUDED IN THE COURSE:You will also receive access to a collection of handouts providing relevant information, useful resources and support in continuing your designing process independently.The handouts will contain:– A glossary containing essential key words related to the topic of the lesson– An illustrated glossary containing information about type of bags and bags’ features– Documents about leather types, finishings, tanning processes– Information about perspective and guides to be used as reference to develop your drawings– A list of recommended suppliers for both leather and fittings (physically in London and online)– A glossary containing information about leather types and characteristicsWHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS?You should be able to use measurements and understand verbal and written English instructions. ARE THERE ANY OTHER COSTS? IS THERE ANYTHING I NEED TO BRING?Materials to exercise with are included.Feel free to bring a notepad, if you would like to take some notes, we will provide the rest.HOW LONG IS THIS TUITION?:This tuition will require up to 7.5 hours to complete but depending on the number of attendees, the ability of participants and the group’s pace, the syllabus may be covered in a shorter time frame.We aim to provide customised and high-quality tuition services and by only allowing max 6 students at a time, we are able to focus on each person needs and interests.As every student has a different level of ability and previous experience, this course might lead some students to complete the core aspects of the lesson in a shorter time frame than others.Students who complete the course early will be welcome to stay and use the studio facilities to exercise on the topics of the lesson.

Learn Traditional Leather Craft, Saddle Stitching And Leather Goods Construction Skills A week-long masterclass offering an in-depth experience of traditional leather craft skills and hand sewing techniques, merging theory with hands-on learning. Dates/times: Five consecutive days - Mon-Fri 10am-5pm Understand the uniqueness of vegetable-tanned leather and the amazing long lasting products that can be created with this material. Proficiently handle traditional hand tools, master various hand-sewing techniques, and understand pattern drafting for the creation of handmade goods. You will gain insights into the technical aspects of leatherworking, including preparation, marking, cutting, gluing, reinforcing, skiving, debossing, finishing, and more. You will create a finished leather bag as well as personalised samples to take home for reference in your future projects.You will conclude the masterclass with the ability to craft entirely handmade leather items and master essential skills such as cutting, finishing, and saddle stitching. You will be taught by a prototype maker and manufacturer with 20 years of experience in this field. Participants also receive valuable handouts and curated lists of leather and tool suppliers for ongoing reference. Leather And Hand Tools: Overview of leather types, tanning, finishing, and best uses Understanding vegetable-tanned leather, how to use it, and how to finish it Importance of choosing the right materials and tools for projects Leather preparation, pattern placement and marking Understanding the cutting of thin and thick leathers and selecting the right cutting tools Using leather punches, skiving, beveling and creasing Finishing leather edges: burnishing and inking Utilising leather glues, tapes and reinforcements Exploration of prototyping and manufacturing leather goods, encompassing varied working methods, machines, and tools. Hand Sewing/saddle Stitching: Saddle stitching leather and understanding related tools and materialsUnderstanding thread types Correctly sewing various leather types, ranging from thin to very thick Sewing straight lines, curves and three-dimensional parts Producing various seams and seam finishes Construction techniques: Sewing and finishing a simple zip on leather Cutting, assembling and sewing simple straps/handles Constructing and sewing common gussets Leather Goods Making: Understanding the basics of pattern making for hand-sewn items and how this differs from machine sewing pattern drafting. Creating a finalised hand sewn leather bag from our designs, choosing colour, materials, reinforcements, hardware and trimmings. By the end of the tuition, you will have: – Developed confidence in utilising specific tools for leather preparation, marking, finishing, cutting and fastening fittings. – Acquired an understanding of working with diverse leather types and thicknesses, with the ability to source and select appropriate tools and materials for your projects. – Mastered essential leather sewing techniques, troubleshooting common sewing issues, and handling challenges such as curves, multiple layers of leather, and three-dimensional objects. – Learned to sew fundamental bag components like simple zips and gussets. – Built confidence in hand sewing, using patterns, and gaining the skills to independently create simple leather items

LEARN HOW TO SEW LEATHER USING INDUSTRIAL MACHINES FOR BAGS, ACCESSORIES, AND GARMENTS This is the third module of a series designed to provide thorough, professional training in leatherworking, sewing and accessory making. Each module has been carefully designed to equip individuals with key skills for starting a career in this sector, broadening their industry knowledge, or embarking on their own journey with solid foundational skills. During the class, you will learn how to correctly sew with the most common machines used in the leather industry and understand their differences. You will gain knowledge about threads, needles, feet, machine components, and useful sewing tricks. You will learn how to set the machine correctly to obtain suitable tension and successfully work with a variety of leather thicknesses and textures. Additionally, you will acquire skills to troubleshoot sewing issues and effectively handle challenges like sewing curves, working with multiple layers of leather, and managing stretchy, rough, or slippery surfaces. Moreover, you will receive valuable handouts, curated lists of leather and tool suppliers for future reference, and create personalised samples for your own use. By the end of the tuition, you will have: – Understood how to set and operate common leather industrial sewing machines, comprehended their differences and main features – Effectively threaded and operated a lock stitch walking foot machine, ensuring correct tension in your sewing – Utilised various tools, equipment and industry tricks proficiently in sewing – Identified thread types and needle sizes for different applications – Learned to sew leather accurately, distinguishing it from other materials, and mastered sewing thin versus thick leather – Sewn straight lines, curves, and parallel lines with confidence – Produced a variety of basic seams, seam finishes, constructions, continuous, and reinforced seams – Handled sewing multiple layers of leather -Successfully obtained fundamental knowledge to sew simple products independently Included in the course: You will receive useful paper handouts containing: – An illustrated guide providing essential information about types of sewing machines and their components. – A glossary containing information about needles, thread types and essential key words related to the topics of the lesson – A list of recommended suppliers for leather and fittings, both in London and online Find all modules here: https://the-london-leather-workshop.cademy.co.uk/

COURSE DESCRIPTION: BAG AND ACCESSORY DESIGN MASTERCLASSThis course is tailored for beginners and intermediate-level participants, offering a distinctive group class format designed to assist aspiring designers or those seeking guidance in bringing to life a practical and viable collection of bags and/or accessories.Through this course, you will gain a comprehensive grasp of fundamental skills in accessory design and what it requires to become a bag designer. It empowers you to transform your creative concepts into tangible realities by providing instruction on the essential steps required for prototyping and manufacturing your collection.In addition to acquiring the skills to design bags and accessories accurately and understanding what information to convey to a prototype maker, this course will guide you through the process of creating patterns and constructing a three-dimensional mock-up for one your design. WHY THIS COURSE DIFFERS FROM THE TYPICAL ‘ACCESSORY DESIGN’ PROGRAMMEThis course has been meticulously designed by a team comprising designers, prototype makers, and handbag manufacturers. It offers a blend of theoretical and practical elements, providing you with the knowledge required by the industry to comprehend and accurately translate your ideas into finished products.Unlike courses that solely focus on creating aesthetically pleasing drawings, this programme emphasizes providing a comprehensive understanding of the intricate and extensive processes involved in designing a collection of handbags. It aims to equip you with the insights necessary to navigate the complexities, ensuring you are well-prepared before and during the design phase. By doing so, the course aims to save you time, expense, and potential frustration when it comes to prototyping and manufacturing your collection.This intensive course will equip you with the skills to potentially save thousands of pounds on product development for your designs and the assistance needed to make your project viable for construction.WHY WE DEVELOPED A FASHION DESIGN COURSEAfter years of designing and developing collections for our clients, we noticed a significant lack of clear information on what it truly takes to become a designer of handbags and fashion accessories.This course is crafted to assist both emerging and struggling designers in developing and articulating their ideas effectively for the prototyping phase. It addresses the needs and challenges faced by our customers, aiming to support and streamline the creative process for project realization. WHO IS THIS COURSE FOR?This course is tailored for aspiring designers seeking professional advice from industry experts, individuals at the beginning of their design careers who require guidance to enhance their design process, or those simply looking to refine their drawing techniques for personal enjoyment.No previous experience is necessary. WHAT WILL BE TAUGHT?Below is a list of topics covered during the classes:Understanding the role of a bag designerBefore designing: understanding and analsing crucial external aspects that will influence your business successAbout your business idea and profile: understanding the target audience, market placement, pricing strategy and moreUnderstanding what a moodboard is and how to use itUnderstanding the differences and purposes of illustrations vs technical drawingsUnderstanding the importance of construction and its impact on your designOverview of the anatomy of a handbag, lining and reinforcementsUnderstanding the structure of a collection: the use of a collection planLearning how to plan a balanced collection of fashion accessoriesUnderstanding finishing options for your designsUnderstanding hardware and its impact on the cost price of your collectionOverview of leather and vegan leatherIdentifying the right materials for your collectionLearning how to draw three-dimensional bagsSketching technical drawingsGoing through the product development of three designsDeveloping patterns and realising 1 three-dimensional mock-up of a bagProviding technical information about your collection to the prototype makerUnderstanding the prototyping processManufacturing your collection: how it works and what the options are. HOW WILL THE CLASS BE TAUGHT?The class will take place in person at our London studio, and the lessons will alternate between theoretical instruction and practical exercises.Some homework will be assigned to students between lessons. HOW LONG IS THIS TUITION?:This course spans an entire week, running from Monday to Friday, 10 am to 5 pm, with a 30-minute lunch break. INCLUDED IN THE COURSE:You will also receive access to a collection of handouts providing relevant information, useful resources and support in continuing your designing process independently.The handouts will contain:– A glossary containing essential key words related to the topic of the lesson– An illustrated glossary containing information about type of bags and bags’ features– An illustrated guide on common hardware used in bags and accessories– Documents about leather types, finishings, tanning processes– Information about perspective and guides to be used as reference to develop your drawings– A list of recommended suppliers for both leather and fittings (physically in London and online) WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS?You should be able to use measurements and understand verbal and written English instructions. ARE THERE ANY OTHER COSTS? IS THERE ANYTHING I NEED TO BRING?Materials to exercise with are included.Feel free to bring a notepad, if you would like to take some notes, we will provide the rest.

– BAG MAKING COURSE – LEATHER GOODS MAKING COURSE: MAKE A STITCHLESS LEATHER BAG – WHAT IS THIS COURSE ABOUT?This is one of our group leather goods making courses for beginners that we organise at our London studio.Using beautiful vegetable-tanned leather, basic leather tools and simple metal fittings, you will make a stitchless leather bag while learning five basic leather working techniques.You will customise your bag by choosing between two designs (see photo gallery) and selecting your preferred colours of leather and fittings.No sewing skills or experience is required!At the end of the course, you won’t just take home a beautiful bag made entirely by you but also an understanding of working with leather and essential leather tools.WHAT WILL I LEARN?During our leather goods making courses, you will always receive an introduction to:-Different leather types-Essential leather tools You will then learn these 5 basic leather working techniques:-Marking leather-Cutting leather-Folding leather-Punching leather-Burnishing leather In the second part of the course, you will apply the techniques learnt by hand-cutting and assembling your beautiful bag using screw studs. No sewing is required.INCLUDED IN THE COURSE:All materials and tools are supplied.WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS?This course on making a stitchless leather bag is suitable for beginners.You should be able to use measurements and understand verbal and written English instructions. ADDITIONAL MATERIAL PROVIDEDIn addition to the course, you will receive the following useful handouts to take home with you:– An introduction to leather types and features – A glossary of leather craft tools which includes images and helpful descriptions – A list of the basic fittings used in handbag making, including images and descriptions – A list of reputable suppliers to buy leather and fittings from (in London and online)HOW LONG IS THIS TUITION?:This tuition will require up to 7 hours to complete.We aim to provide customised and high quality tuition services and by only allowing up to 5 students at a time, we are able to focus on each person needs and interests.As every student has a different level of ability and previous experience, this course might lead some students to complete the core aspects of the lesson in a shorter time frame than others.Students who complete the course early will be welcome to stay and use the studio facilities to exercise on the topics of the lesson.

Runs on Sundays 25th Februrary and 2nd March 10:30-3:30 Make the fab Tilly and the Buttons Coco or Billy dress in this one day class. These dresses are made from knitted fabric and therefor a great pattern to make in a short time - No zips or buttonholes! It should just fit straight out of the envelope. This is a good class to learn about using stretch fabrics on a domestic sewing machine. For a more in-depth class covering fitting please join the 3 day dressmaking course instead.   The pattern for this garment is included in the class fee, as are the machines, haberdashery, endless tea and coffee. All you'll need to bring is the fabric for your dress, I will discuss the exact amount and what kind is suitable once the class is booked.    This is a small class so you will get lots of time with me. I will have a maximum of 4 students in the class but usually we just have 2 or 3.  Event Terms & Conditions Classes need to be paid for at the time of booking. They will only run once the minimum number of students is met. My studio sadly isn’t accessible to those with mobility issues. I have cats but no soft furnishings or carpets in the studio so most people with allergies are fine with antihistamines.

Learn to sew a child's garment in this long (6 hours ish) day class. I stock the Two Stitches patterns (https://www.twostitchespatterns.com/printed-patterns-1) and one of these is included in your class fee. I also have patterns for quite a few simple baby and toddler garments you can use. Once you ket me know what you want to make and what size I will let you know how much and what kind of fabric you need and what else you need to bring. This is a fairly high paced class so you need to be ok with threading up etc aline and know how to make seams, backstitch etc. The sewing won't be complex but we won't have time to explain how a machine works. If you are not sure please do a beginners or refresher's class first.

Start by learning to read a commercial dressmaking pattern, adjusting it to your own unique measurements, and then learn to sew up your garment. The class has a maximum of 4 people in it so you get tons of one to one support, and you will learn a lot! This is a really comprehensive introduction to learning to make your own clothes. It is a small class and nicely paced so you will be able to ask all the questions and really delve quite deep into it all. Most of my past students now regulary make their own clothes! I am passionate about teaching people about fit and we will talk about dart manipulation, bust adjustments, neckline and sleeve adjustments etc. We usually all work from the same pattern but if you want to make something else because you, for example, don't wear dresses, I am very flexible.

LEARN HOW TO MAKE SIMPLE LEATHER ITEMS: WHAT IS THIS COURSE ABOUT? This is a theoretical and practical taster group tuition during which you will receive an overview on basic leather craft skills and techniques and realise one or more simple leather items to take home with you.The class will take place in our London workshop where you will be able to see how a leather craft studio is equipped and receive practical demonstrations of common working methods used in the field.YOU WILL BE ABLE TO MAKE AS MANY CUSTOMISED LEATHER ITEMS AS YOU CAN, choosing between a selection of different types of goods such as key rings, glasses cases, card holders, bracelets and more.You will be shown different types of leather and get to understand their main features. You will receive an introduction on how to prepare, mark, cut, edge finish leather and use simple fastening hardware.You will receive relevant, useful and informative handouts as well as lists of leather and tool suppliers.   At the end of the tuition you will have:– Gained an understanding of leather types– Been instructed on the use of common fastenings and closure techniques– Received an overview on the correct use of tools for preparing, marking, cutting and punching leather– Understood and practiced leather craft techniques such as beveling and burnishing techniques– Realised you own small, simple leather item(s) to take home with you WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS?This course is suitable for total beginners and beginners with some experience in leather crafts.You should be able to use measurements and understand verbal and written English instructions.   ARE THERE ANY OTHER COSTS? IS THERE ANYTHING I NEED TO BRING?Materials are included.Feel free to bring a notepad, if you would like to take some notes, we will provide the rest. INCLUDED IN THE COURSE:You will be provided with useful handouts which contain:– A list of recommended suppliers for both leather and fittings (physically in London and online)– A glossary containing information about leather types and characteristicsHOW LONG IS THIS TUITION?:This tuition will require up to 2 hours to complete.We aim to provide customised and high quality tuition services and by only allowing up to 6 students at a time, we are able to focus on each person needs and interests.As every student has a different level of ability and previous experience, this course might lead some students to complete the core aspects of the lesson in a shorter time frame than others.Students who complete the course early will be welcome to stay and use the studio facilities to exercise on the topics of the lesson.

I often buy clothes and accessories spontaneously. This results in a wardrobe full of pieces that don’t pair with anything. “I have nothing to wear….” I hear you say. A handful of treasures just hanging in there before progressing into a charity giveaway bag. Not if you know your true colours that will elevate your look and mood as well as save money and the environment. Based on this colour analysis we can create a capsule wardrobe using your existing pieces and follow your colour chart to purchase matching items in future. Whatever fashion dictates, buying less and more consciously will reduce waste, save money and creates a wonderful wardrobe you can be proud of! The analysis is based on inherited tones as well as personality. Based on 4 seasons: spring and autumn being warm and summer and winter cool in the colour spectrum.