168 Recreational courses in London

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/

Private View – PhotoX3 London Exhibition Join Us For Drinks Join us for the Private View of PhotoX3 London Exhibition, an exciting showcase of over 30 photographic works by talented artists from the UK, Japan, India, the USA, and beyond. Presented in collaboration with the ArtGeminiPrize, this exhibition celebrates international contemporary photography, featuring both emerging and established artists. Since its founding in 2012 by fine art enthusiast and dealer Jimmy Lek, the ArtGeminiPrize has attracted over 6,000 entries from 44 countries and awarded more than £60,000 in prizes. Venue: London Lighthouse Gallery & Studio, 18 Lyell Street, London City Island, London, E14 0SZ Date: Wednesday, 4th June Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Come enjoy an evening of inspiring photography in a vibrant setting. We look forward to welcoming you.

In this fun and creative course, you'll learn how to use sashiko mending techniques to patch your jeans with elegance. You will learn the fundamentals of visible mending jeans, which uses simple stitches to create stunning patterns and designs on the cloth. A step-by-step demonstration and guidance on how to execute sashiko stitching on jeans will be provided. You must bring your own ripped jeans or work on the sampler provided by us. Join us for this enjoyable and relaxing course to experience the delight of visible mending jeans!

Join me in the studio at West 16th on Wednesday 11th June to learn how to make a fabulous flower crown from fresh seasonal flowers and foliage. We will teach you step by step to select the flowers to fit your vibe - be it wedding, festival, disco or garden party. We then learn how to tape and wire your stems and finally to build them into a gorgeous crown. You'll pick up plently of florist tips and tricks along the way and leave with your gorgeous crown creation to take home. All the flowers, equipment and instruction will be provided alongside drinks and treats from the West 16th kitchen.

Get ready to learn how to make your own tote bag. A fun and easy project for beginners. Book your spot today Learn to make a tote bag - a reusable & eco-friendly bag Join us for a fun and interactive in-person event where you can learn to make your own stylish tote bag! Whether you're a beginner or have some sewing experience, this event is perfect for anyone looking to unleash their creativity and learn a new skill. During this event, our experienced instructors will guide you step-by-step through the process of creating a beautiful tote bag. You'll learn essential sewing techniques, such as measuring, cutting, stitching, and finishing. Relax and enjoy the process of creating something beautiful with your own hands You will also get: - Fabric to make your bag and all other necessary materials and equipment - Expert guidance and tips from your workshop host - Email support for the next 3 months What you need to bring: - Your own sewing machine with its power cable Please make sure the machine works and has been recently serviced. Please bring along the manual and all the accessories that came with it including spare bobbins and the bobbin case if applicable. Don't worry if you don't have a sewing machine, as we have machines you can borrow. - Threads and a sewing kit (you can buy one from us if you want) - Notepad and pen The workshop is limited to 6 people per session. If you want a private group session, please message us with your booking. Note: You need to know how to thread and use your machine. We offer an introduction to sewing machine workshop too, if you wanted to get to grips with your machine. You will receive a confirmation email after booking from our website. Please provide your phone number so we can message you in case of emergencies. Whether you want to make a personalized gift for a loved one or simply want to expand your crafting skills, this event is a fantastic opportunity to have fun and meet like-minded individuals. So, grab your friends and join us for a creative and enjoyable day of sewing! Spaces are limited, so reserve your spot now and get ready to embark on a sewing adventure! Note: If less than 3 participants have booked on this workshop, we will reschedule the workshop for a more convenient date or a different location. Priority will be given to existing paid participants first who have the option to confirm or cancel within 7 days. Frequently asked questions What is the age range for the workshop? This workshop is suitable for adults and kids. What should I bring with me to the workshop? Bring your own sewing machine with it’s power cable if you are not borrowing from us. The manual and all the accessories the machine came with Bobbin, bobbin case if applicable Threads and a full sewing kit. You can purchase one from us Notepad and pen How many participants will attend this workshop? There will be a maximum of 6 participants at this workshop. Small groups work best as everyone gets a chance to learn and ask questions. Please note: The workshop would be rescheduled if there are less than 3 participants booked for the date. Is the venue wheelchair accessible? Unfortunately, this venue isn't wheelchair accessible. There are 2 short sets of stairs to get to the room. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you want further info or any specific needs or concerns. I will do my best to accommodate you. What is the cancellation and refund policy for the workshop series? Cancellation notice period: Refunds: 28 days or more before the course start date - Full refund minus the fees15-27 days before the course start date - 50% refund minus the fees 14 days or less before the course start date We will try & fill the space. If we fill it, full refund minus fees.

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.

Mending garments extends their life. Learn how to properly sew buttons, restore stitching, fix hems, and employ undetectable repairing techniques. You'll also appreciate the social and artistic sides of mending with others, as well as lowering your carbon footprint by avoiding fast fashion. Book your place today and revamp your wardrobe with some basic but efficient clothing mending techniques!

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.

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

This course is not suitable for total beginners. To attend this course, you must already have some experience with industrial machines and be able to operate and set up a walking foot independently, or have attended our MODULE 3 – INDUSTRIAL MACHINE TRAINING. UNDERSTANDING THE CONSTRUCTION AND SEWING OF LEATHER GOODS: GUSSETS, FEATURES AND COMPONENTS This is the forth module of a series designed to provide thorough, professional training in leatherworking, leather sewing, bag 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. Through this lesson, you will learn how to construct, sew, and finish some of the most challenging parts of leather goods making, such as straps, handles, zips, pockets, and more. By working on various shapes and structures, you will gain insights into the technical aspects of leatherworking, including preparation, marking, cutting, gluing, reinforcing, skiving, and more. At the end of the lesson, you will have experienced a wide range of techniques, worked with numerous tools, used leatherworking sewing machines, and produced samples to take home with you. By the end of the lesson, you will have: – Received an introduction to leather preparation, pattern placement, and leather marking – Received an overview of leather cutting, gluing, reinforcing and skiving – Learned how to sew and finish zips on leather – Learned how to cut, assemble, and sew simple straps and handles – Gained knowledge on incorporating two types of lining in your project – Learned how to assemble and sew simple gussets – Learned how to construct simple and zipped pockets Included in the course: You will receive useful paper handouts containing: – A list of tools and materials used during the lesson(s), with descriptions and usage instructions – A list of recommended suppliers for leather and fittings, both in London and online – A glossary containing information about leather goods components Find all modules here: https://the-london-leather-workshop.cademy.co.uk/