142 Courses

Short online course showing creative methods of using dissolvable fabric in Art Textiles.

Boost Your Career with Apex Learning and Get Noticed By Recruiters in this Hiring Season! Get Hard Copy + PDF Certificates + Transcript + Student ID Card worth £160 as a Gift - Enrol Now Give a compliment to your career and take it to the next level. This Crochet: Sewing Craft will provide you with the essential knowledge and skills required to shine in your professional career. Whether you want to develop skills for your next job or want to elevate skills for your next promotion, this Crochet: Sewing Craft will help you keep ahead of the pack. The Crochet: Sewing Craft incorporates basic to advanced level skills to shed some light on your way and boost your career. Hence, you can reinforce your professional skills and essential knowledge, reaching out to the level of expertise required for your position. Further, this Crochet: Sewing Craft will add extra value to your resume to stand out to potential employers. Throughout the programme, it stresses how to improve your competency as a person in your profession while at the same time it outlines essential career insights in this job sector. Consequently, you'll strengthen your knowledge and skills; on the other hand, see a clearer picture of your career growth in future. By the end of the Crochet: Sewing Craft, you can equip yourself with the essentials to keep you afloat into the competition. Along with this course, you will get 10 other premium courses. Also, you will get an original Hardcopy and PDF certificate for the title course and a student ID card absolutely free. This Bundle Consists of the following Premium courses: Course 01: Crochet for Beginners Course 02: Sewing Course 03: Sewing Patterns Training Course 04: Fashion and Lifestyle Blogging Certificate Course 05: Fashion Store Assistant Training Course 06: Marketing Fundamentals Course 07: Social Media Strategy for Business Course 08: Visual Merchandising Course 09: Product Photography Course 10: Workplace Safety Course Course 11: First Aid Training As one of the top course providers in the UK, we're committed to providing you with the best educational experience possible. Our industry experts have designed the Crochet: Sewing Craft to empower you to learn all at once with accuracy. You can take the course at your own pace - anytime, from anywhere. So, enrol now to advance your career! Benefits you'll get choosing Apex Learning for this Crochet: Sewing Craft: One payment, but lifetime access to 11 CPD courses Certificate, student ID for the title course included in a one-time fee Full tutor support available from Monday to Friday Free up your time - don't waste time and money travelling for classes Accessible, informative modules taught by expert instructors Learn at your ease - anytime, from anywhere Study the course from your computer, tablet or mobile device CPD accredited course - improve the chance of gaining professional skills How will I get my Certificate? After successfully completing the course you will be able to order your CPD Accredited Certificates (PDF + Hard Copy) as proof of your achievement. PDF Certificate: Free (Previously it was £10 * 11 = £110) Hard Copy Certificate: Free (For The Title Course) If you want to get hardcopy certificates for other courses, generally you have to pay £20 for each. But this Fall, Apex Learning is offering a Flat 50% discount on hard copy certificates, and you can get each for just £10! P.S. The delivery charge inside the U.K. is £3.99 and the international students have to pay £9.99. Curriculum of the Bundle Course 01: Crochet for Beginners Module 1: Introduction Module 2: Equipment for Crochet Module 3: Know Your Yarn Module 4: Basic Crochet Stitches Module 5: Advance Crochet Stitches Module 6: Beginner Patterns Module 7: Crochet Techniques Module 8: Getting Started with Crochet Projects(Part 1) Module 9: Getting Started with Crochet Projects(Part 2) Course 02: Sewing Module 01: Knowing Your Sewing Machine Module 02: Types of Sewing Machine Module 03: Sewing Supplies and Products Module 04: Threads Module 05: Fabric Basics and Common Stitches Module 06: Working with Patterns Module 07: Cutting, Marking and Getting Ready to Sew And Much More..... Course 03: Sewing Patterns Training Introduction Finding and Buying Patterns Unpacking the Envelope The Instructions Sheet The Tissue Paper Pattern Assembling and Reading PDF Patterns Unpacking and Reading Vintage Patterns Before You Cut a Size or View Final Project And Much More..... Course 04: Fashion and Lifestyle Blogging Certificate Module 01: Blogging 101 Module 02: Starting Out and Setting Up Module 03: Content Creation Module 04: Photography and Imagery Module 05: Staying Social Module 06: Networking and Events Module 07: Working with Brands Module 08: Monetising Your Blog Module 09: Building a Brand Module 10: Growing as a Blogger Module 11: The Fashion and Lifestyle Blogger Roundup Course 05: Fashion Store Assistant Training Module 01: Profession of a Personal Shopper Module 02: Planning Advice Module 03: Fashion and Trends Module 04: Communication and Protocol Module 05: Career Guidance Module 06: Understanding Consumer Behaviour Module 07: How to Make Your Shop a Magnet to Customers Course 06: Marketing Fundamentals Module 01: Introduction to Marketing Fundamentals Module 02: Definitions of Marketing Module 03: Traditional vs Contemporary Marketing Module 04: Marketing Management Orientations Module 05: Understand your Customers Module 06: Segmentation Course 07: Social Media Strategy for Business Section 1: Introduction Section 2: Importance of Social Media Marketing for Business Section 3: Creating a Social Media Strategy Course 08: Visual Merchandising Module 01: Introduction to Visual Merchandising Module 02: Store Layouts Module 03: Exterior Design Module 04: In-Store Design Module 05: Mannequins in Visual Merchandising Module 06: Display Fixtures Module 07: The Role of a Visual Merchandiser Module 08: Challenges of Modern Visual Merchandising Course 09: Product Photography Section 01: Photography 101 -Your Simple Outline! Section 02: Learning to shoot in Manual Mode Section 03: The 'Pre-Production' Phase Section 04: The Background Section 05: Lighting & Love Section 06: The Actual Photoshoot! Section 07: Post-Production Phase Section 08: The Final Word Course 10: Workplace Safety Course Module 01 : Health and Safety at Work and the Laws Module 02 : Managing for Health and Safety Module 03 : Risk Assessment and Common Risks Module 04 : Workplace Health, Safety and Welfare Module 05 : Accidents and Ill Health at Work Module 06 : Electrical, Fire and Gas Safety Module 07 : Safety in Different Work Settings Module 08 : Work Equipment Hazards and Risk Control Module 09 : Other Health and Safety Hazards at Work Course 11: First Aid Training Introduction to Workplace First Aid Legal Framework for Workplace First Aid Incident Management at Work Primary Survey Secondary Survey Basic First-Aid Techniques Dealing with Minor Injuries at the Workplace Secondary Illness Loss of Responsiveness and CPR Secondary Illness Breathing Problems Secondary Illnesses and Injuries Dealing With Fractures and Dislocations Call for an Emergency CPD 115 CPD hours / points Accredited by CPD Quality Standards Who is this course for? Anyone from any background can enrol in thisbundle. Persons with similar professions can also refresh or strengthen their skills by enrolling in this course. Students can take this course to gather professional knowledge besides their study or for the future. Requirements Our Crochet: Sewing Craft is fully compatible with PC's, Mac's, Laptop, Tablet and Smartphone devices. This course has been designed to be fully compatible with tablets and smartphones so you can access your course on Wi-Fi, 3G or 4G. There is no time limit for completing this course, it can be studied in your own time at your own pace. Career path Having these various expertise will increase the value in your CV and open you up to multiple job sectors. Certificates Certificate of completion Digital certificate - Included

A short online course led by NICKY SIMPSON, learning how to be creative using Bondaweb.

MASTERCLASS: LEARN PROFESSIONAL LEATHER CRAFT, SEWING AND LEATHERGOODS CONSTRUCTION SKILLS One teacher, five students KEY FEATURES OF THIS COURSE:– Understanding and working with leather– Learning leather hand sewing– Learning leather machine sewing– Realising samples of bag features– Realising two finished leather items Experience a comprehensive two-week Leather Craft and Sewing Masterclass, merging theory with hands-on learning Explore essential techniques for working with leather, vegan alternatives, and fabric. Proficiently handle hand tools, master hand-sewing, and operate industrial machines. Cover material selection, finishing and construction methods.Gain insights into the technical aspects of leatherworking, including preparation, marking, cutting, gluing, reinforcing, skiving, debossing, and more.Participants receive thorough instruction in professional sewing techniques on diverse industrial machines, along with specialised saddle stitching training. Create personalised samples to enhance practical skills.Conclude the masterclass with the ability to craft entirely handmade simple leather items, showcasing acquired skills in both machine-stitched and saddle-stitched styles.Facilitated by a prototype maker and manufacturer, the course offers a professional journey into common leatherworking practices.Participants also receive valuable handouts and curated lists of leather and tool suppliers for ongoing reference.   Here is a concise summary of the topics covered during the classes: LEATHER, VEGAN LEATHER, AND HAND TOOLS:Understanding leather types, tanning, finishings and best useExploring different types of vegan leathers and their featuresComparing leather and vegan leather: pros and cons from a manufacturer’s perspectiveImportance of choosing the right materials and tools for projectsLeather preparation, pattern placement and markingCutting complex shapes with various toolsUsing leather punches, skiving, beveling and creasingFinishing leather edges: painting vs. burnishingUtilising leather glues, tapes and reinforcementsExploration of prototyping and manufacturing leather goods, encompassing varied working methods, machines, and tools.   MACHINE AND HAND SEWING:Understanding industrial sewing machines and their differencesSelecting the right sewing machine for specific materials and constructionsOperating a lock stitch walking foot machineThreading industrial sewing machinesAchieving correct tension in sewingUnderstanding thread types and needle sizesLearning to sew leather, distinguishing it from other materialsCorrectly sewing various leather types, ranging from thin to very thickSewing straight lines, curves and creating parallel seamsProducing various seams and seam finishesBasics of saddle stitching leather and understanding related tools and materials   CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES:Sewing and finishing a simple zip on leatherCutting, assembling and sewing simple straps/handlesIncorporating basic lining types in projectsConstructing and sewing common gussetsComprehending the use of reinforcements and stabilisers and their application in the craft of accessory making   LEATHER GOODS MAKING:Creating two finalised leather items from chosen designs such as card holders, purses, clutches, glass covers and similar accessories.# 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 various surface textures.– Learned to sew fundamental bag components like simple zips, straps, and gussets, along with reinforcing specific areas of a bag.– Built confidence in sewing with both industrial machines and by hand, gaining the skills to independently create simple leather items. Included in the course:You will be provided with useful paper handouts which contain:– A list of tools and materials used during the lesson(s), including a description of what they are and how they are used– A list of recommended suppliers for both leather and fittings (physically in London and online)– A glossary containing essential key words related to the topic of the lesson– A glossary containing information about leather types and characteristics– A glossary containing information about needle and thread types   What are the entry requirements? This course is suitable for total beginners, beginners with some experience and intermediate.You should be able to use measurements and understand verbal and written English instructions.   Are there any other costs? Materials are included.   Is there anything I need to bring? 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 two consecutive weeks / 50 hours to be completed.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.   IMPORTANT TO KNOW: We aim to cover as much of the syllabus as possible. Depending on your ability and prior experience, we may not complete the entire program or we might delve into additional techniques related to the listed topics, including:Advanced finishing techniques (piping, binding, folding)More complex styles of zipsUtilising different machine feet, tools, and equipment in your sewingExploring various fittings, closure types, fastening techniques, and tools (sam browns, magnets, pop buttons, eyelets, etc.)Understanding the importance and application of construction sequences and reference notes during item construction

An Essential Sewing & Making Skills Course for Teachers of GCSE & A Level Fashion & Textiles for both Art & Design and D&T.

Do you want to acquire the knowledge that will Help you Understand & Cope with Tailoring and Alterations? In a town where attire told tales, one course whispered secrets of perfect fits. Journey with us, from tangled threads to tailored triumphs. Here, every fabric has a destiny, waiting for the right hands to shape it. Witness ordinary clothes finding their extraordinary tales. 'Tailoring and Alterations' - where every stitch spins a story. Course Highlights Tailoring and Alterations is an award winning and the best selling course that has been given the CPD Certification & IAO accreditation. It is the most suitable course anyone looking to work in this or relevant sector. It is considered one of the perfect courses in the UK that can help students/learners to get familiar with the topic and gain necessary skills to perform well in this field. We have packed Tailoring and Alterations for teaching you everything you need to become successful in this profession. To provide you ease of access, this course is designed for both part-time and full-time students. It is also possible to study at your own pace. We have experienced tutors who will help you throughout the comprehensive syllabus of this course and answer all your queries through email. For further clarification, you will be able to recognize your qualification by checking the validity from our dedicated website. Why You Should Choose Tailoring and Alterations Lifetime access to the course No hidden fees or exam charges CPD Accredited certification on successful completion Full Tutor support on weekdays (Monday - Friday) Efficient exam system, assessment and instant results Download Printable PDF certificate immediately after completion Obtain the original print copy of your certificate, dispatch the next working day for as little as £9. Improve your chance of gaining professional skills and better earning potential. Who is this Course for? Tailoring and Alterations is CPD certified and IAO accredited. This makes it perfect for anyone trying to learn potential professional skills. As there is no experience and qualification required for this course, it is available for all students from any academic backgrounds. Requirements Our Tailoring and Alterations is fully compatible with any kind of device. Whether you are using Windows computer, Mac, smartphones or tablets, you will get the same experience while learning. Besides that, you will be able to access the course with any kind of internet connection from anywhere at any time without any kind of limitation. Career Path You will be ready to enter the relevant job market after completing this course. You will be able to gain necessary knowledge and skills required to succeed in this sector. All our Diplomas' are CPD and IAO accredited so you will be able to stand out in the crowd by adding our qualifications to your CV and Resume. Tailoring and Alterations Module 01: Introduction to Tailoring 00:12:00 Module 02: Sewing Machine Essentials 00:10:00 Module 03: Basic Sewing Techniques 00:10:00 Module 04: Altering Tops and Shirts 00:09:00 Module 05: Altering Pants and Skirts 00:10:00 Module 06: Advanced Alterations 00:11:00 Module 07: Special Projects 00:11:00

5-day practical leather bag pattern cutting and design course with leather crafting skillsLearn leather bag design and creation processes with an introduction to leather crafting. Design bags in 3DSee 1-day Pattern Cutting (The Basics) course, here. Join us in our Oxfordshire Workshop (UK) for a week of learning and making. Learn directly from Leathersmith and London College of Fashion Lecturer, Georgie Tym as she guides you through designing your own patterns from scratch to create a whole catalogue of 3D shapes for bags and accessories along with a basic introduction to leather crafting skills. Who is this course for? This 5-day practical bag pattern cutting and introduction to leather craft course is ideal for all experience levels, from beginners to confident makers. A perfect introduction into the pattern cutting skills and leather skills you’ll need to create and design your own bag patterns and leather designs. Are you looking to: Start your own bag brand? Design your own bags? Understand the bag making process? Create bags at home to complete your own handmade wardrobe? Satisfy a general interest into the skills and techniques required to make your own bags? Develop a foundation in leather crafting skillsIf you've answered yes to any of the above, then this is the course for you. What to expect Join Georgie to learn the basics of pattern cutting for bags with an introduction to leather craft. The course includes a foundation knowledge through to more complex cutting techniques. Looking at 3D shapes and examples from which you can create multiple shapes and details. Learn all the essential skills you will need to begin your leather crafting journey. This is the course for you if you’re ready to turn those bags you’ve been dreaming up and designing into 3-Dimensional tangible reality. Within the course, you’ll also be introduced to techniques and materials suitable for accessories, including sewing on an industrial sewing machine and stitching leather by hand. Upon completing the pattern cutting and introduction to leather course you will take away the knowledge to bring your designs to life. Complete with a set of paper/ fabric mock-ups which can be kept as your reference sample set and leather craft samples you will have your very own library of resources to inspire and generate future ideas. The course covers: Pattern types and shapes suitable for each construction type Patterns for details and functionality features Professional methods and best practice Basic pattern cutting techniques Pattern design/ development and sequences Hands on involvement and demonstrations. Hand stitching leather and other materials Machine stitching leather and other materials Leather tools and machinery Seam types used in bag and leather constructions Leather and other materials discussions You will receive a certificate upon completion of the course.  What's included in the price? There are no additional costs. Basic materials will be included.The course runs from 10am – 3.30pm Monday - Friday. There will be a tea/ coffee breaks throughout and an hour break at lunch. Please note lunch is not provided.The course will be run from the HOME STUDIO of Hands Of Tym in Banbury, Oxfordshire, OX16 9DHParking available on the drive or on the street with easy access via the M40. Banbury train station is a steep 30 min walk. Trains run from both London Marylebone and Birmingham to Banbury in 50mins. Also well connected to Reading, Oxford, Leamington Spa to name a few.Maximum class size is 5 Cancellation policy Easy - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 2 weeks before the course starts About Georgie at Hands of Tym During training at Cordwainers, London College of Fashion in 2010 I learnt how to design, make and manufacture bags professionally. Following a varied career in Accessories design and development across many roles and international brands I set up Hands of Tym in 2016. The courses I offer are suitable for all, from experienced to total novice. Come along to learn something new, and design and make your own leather bag in a day.

In the United Kingdom, professionals in the sewing and crochet fields can expect to earn a salary ranging from £18,000 to £35,000 per year, depending on their experience and expertise. With the Sewing & Crochet Diploma, you can embark on a rewarding journey in the textile industry, where skilled individuals can earn a competitive salary in the UK. Discover the art of sewing and crocheting with our comprehensive diploma bundle, designed to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge to excel in these timeless crafts. Delve into the world of fabric and yarn as you master the techniques needed to create beautiful garments, accessories, and home decor items. Our diploma bundle comprises two engaging courses: Sewing and Crochet for Beginners, that will guide you through the intricacies of these crafts, allowing you to explore your creative potential and transform your passion into a fulfilling career. Each course in this Sewing & Crochet Diploma bundle holds a prestigious CPD accreditation, symbolising exceptional quality. The materials, brimming with knowledge, are regularly updated, ensuring their relevance. This bundle promises not just education but an evolving learning experience. Engage with this extraordinary collection, and prepare to enrich your personal and professional development. Immerse yourself in these diverse, enthralling subjects, each designed to fuel your curiosity and enhance your knowledge. Dive in now! The courses in this bundle include: Sewing Sewing Craft: Crochet Learning Outcome: Mastery of Sewing Techniques: Gain a solid understanding of sewing fundamentals, including various stitches, fabric types, and pattern reading, enabling you to confidently undertake a wide range of sewing projects. Proficiency in Crochet Skills: Develop essential crochet skills, such as mastering different stitches, pattern interpretation, and shaping techniques, empowering you to create intricate designs and stunning crochet creations. Application of Design Principles: Learn to apply design principles to your sewing and crochet projects, allowing you to create visually appealing and well-structured garments, accessories, and home decor items. Enhanced Creativity: Cultivate your creative flair as you explore different fabric and yarn combinations, experiment with colour schemes, and innovate with unique patterns, enabling you to produce one-of-a-kind creations. Attention to Detail and Quality: Develop a keen eye for detail and precision, ensuring that your sewing and crochet projects are executed with impeccable craftsmanship and a high level of quality. Project Planning and Execution: Acquire the skills to plan and execute sewing and crochet projects effectively, including material selection, measuring and cutting fabric or yarn, assembling pieces, and finishing techniques, enabling you to complete projects efficiently and professionally. Welcome to the world of sewing and crochet, where creativity knows no bounds. Our Sewing & Crochet Diploma is a comprehensive program designed to immerse you in the artistry of fabric and yarn. Whether you're a complete beginner or have some experience in these crafts, this diploma bundle is your gateway to unlocking a world of possibilities. The first course in the bundle, Sewing, will teach you the fundamental techniques required to bring your fabric creations to life. From understanding different types of stitches to reading patterns and operating a sewing machine, you will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to complete various sewing projects with confidence and precision. In the Crochet for Beginners course, you will delve into the art of creating intricate designs using yarn and a crochet hook. You will learn basic crochet stitches, pattern interpretation, and techniques for shaping and finishing your projects. Through step-by-step guidance, you will develop the ability to crochet beautiful garments, accessories, and decorative items. CPD 10 CPD hours / points Accredited by CPD Quality Standards Who is this course for? Individuals with a keen interest in sewing and crochet Beginners who want to learn the basics of sewing and crochet Craft enthusiasts looking to expand their skill set Individuals considering a career in the textile industry Sewing and crochet hobbyists who want to enhance their techniques Career path Sewing machinist - £18,000 to £22,000 per year Tailor/Seamstress - £20,000 to £28,000 per year Textile designer - £24,000 to £35,000 per year Fashion designer - £25,000 to £40,000 per year Pattern cutter - £22,000 to £30,000 per year Crochet designer - £20,000 to £30,000 per year Textile artist - £18,000 to £35,000 per year Certificates Certificate Of Completion Digital certificate - Included Certificate Of Completion Hard copy certificate - £9.99 Unlock your potential and showcase your accomplishments with our CPD Quality Standards certificates! Upon finishing Sewing and Sewing Craft: Crochet, you'll have the opportunity to obtain valuable proof of your achievement. For just £4.99, we'll send you a CPD Quality Standards PDF Certificate via email, or if you prefer, you can get a beautifully printed hardcopy certificate for £9.99 in the UK. If you're located internationally, don't worry! We offer a printed hardcopy certificate for £14.99, ensuring your success knows no boundaries. Grab your certificate and celebrate your success today!

This qualification is designed for learners aged pre-16 and above who wish to develop skills and knowledge in textile craft. This course has been designed to be as affordable for families as possible but does rely on the use of a sewing machine. Please note, this is not a GCSE but is a GCSE Level course which is why it is designed to span 2 years, although we offer complete flexibility on the timeframe that learners can complete within. This qualification is a Level 2 Qualification and is Ofqual approved carrying 15 credits. Other examples of Level 2 qualifications are BTEC Level 2 and the Silver Arts Award. Feedback from our past learners shows that this qualiifcation is widely regarded as level to a grade A*-C/4-9 at GCSE standard when applying for college or work placements. Please also note, that whether this course is recognised as a GCSE equivalent by colleges and further education establishments, can vary according to location, college and even between courses at the same college. If reliant on this qualification for entry onto another course, it is recommended that you establish with the college whether or not this will aid admission, before committing to the course. Click here to download the Level 2 Textiles Information Pack.pdf Our Open day event gives a little more insight into how the course works and the content covered: We don't impose any minimum or maximum ages on our learners as we recognise that every learner is an individual and is on their own unique learning journey. We believe, that their adult facilitator is the best person to judge whether a learner is ready for a particular course, but to enable you to make this decision we provide a workbook, free for you to try. Simpy email technologytriumphs@outlook.com to request a free sample session. We are also happy to advise you with this decision so do reach out to us if you would like our guidance on this. As part of your Induction pack, your learner will receive a free apron to use within their course, but aside from this we have designed the courses to utilise as affordable as possible. The following is not an exhaustive list, but does highlight the main costs associated with the course. For further information or to ask any questions please feel free to reach out to us, in the assurance that you are speaking to another fellow home edder.Support can be found in our dedicated Facebook group where you will also have access to a free sample session within the file sectionLevel 2 Textiles Group *** PLEASE CLICK HERE TO BOOK *** UNIT SUMMARIES 601/3232/2/TEX Credit Value: 15 Total Qualification Time: 150 hours   1 Be able to use materials, tools and equipment to develop craft techniques  1.1 Assess the properties of available materials for craft item(s) including the visual and tactile qualities  1.2 Select materials, tools, equipment and techniques to support craft ideas and give reasons for choices  1.3 Use appropriate tools and equipment for selected techniques  1.4 Develop craft techniques, making effective use of materials, tools and equipment  1.5 Maintain a safe working environment by ensuring safe use of materials, tools and equipment   1 Understand the market within a chosen craft area  1.1 Explore enterprises within a chosen craft area  1.2 Explain what makes them successful  1.3 Describe the market(s) for chosen craft area  1.4 Identify opportunities in chosen market(s)  1.5 Explain the importance of listening to stakeholders when developing ideas  1.6 Explain the importance of balancing risk against the potential reward of creative ideas  1.7 Identify appropriate financial tools to support creative enterprising ideas  1.8 Identify ways to market a creative product   2 Understand employment opportunities within a chosen craft area  The learner can:  2.1 Explore employment opportunities within a chosen craft area  2.2 Describe the characteristics of an enterprising individual in a chosen craft area  2.3 Identify own strengths and areas for development within a chosen craft area  2.4 Produce an action plan for personal development/career aspirations    1 Be able to develop craft ideas  The learner can:  1.1 Use a range of different sources to develop craft ideas  1.2 Develop visual language to communicate craft ideas  1.3 Use feedback and evaluation of own work to develop craft ideas  1.4 Adapt craft ideas in response to feedback and evaluation of own work  1.5 Select preferred craft idea giving reasons for  1.6 Maintain a safe working environment   1 Be able to create and present final craft item(s)  The learner can:  1.1 Use chosen idea to create a production plan 1.2 Use selected tools, materials, equipment and techniques to produce final craft work  1.3 Display craft work in an appropriate way/setting  1.4 Maintain a safe working environment    2 Know how to evaluate the creative and craft making processes  The learner can:  2.1 Evaluate the creative process  2.2 Review final craft item to identify opportunities for improvement or further development

If you’re a beginner bag maker, this Retreat is perfect for you. A whole weekend to immerse yourself in fabrics, stabiliser, professional techniques and tips to boost your confidence and your skills. Hopefully, there’ll be a lot of chat and laughter too! **This retreat is a little different from many others in that making a bag isn’t the point of the weekend, although you will indeed make one. The focus is on learning new transferable techniques and skills that you will be able to use on so many bags you make in the future. We have our own ‘Retreat Suite’ of rooms, including a spacious, light and airy sewing room which is equipped with a display screen so everyone can easily see demonstrations from a working viewpoint. We also have our own bathroom and kitchen facilities. If you wish, you are free to continue work after dinner and until as late (or early!) as you like. You will need to bring your own sewing machine, fabric scissors and any other favourite sewing tools, but everything else is provided. Come and join us in the exclusive Facebook group Bag Makers Retreat at https://www.facebook.com/groups/bagmakersretreat/ for all the latest retreat info, chat, gossip and more, plus a chance to meet other like-minded folks.  If you have dietary requirements, please tell me before you book, so I can be sure we can meet your needs. All meal main courses are included in the retreat fee, as are Saturday and Sunday lunches and breakfasts. Starters, desserts and drinks with meals are not included but the meals are so huge you probably won’t want starters and desserts anyway!! Tea and coffee is available whenever you need, but you do have to make it yourself!  If you’d like to stay an extra night or two, maybe to arrive on Thursday or leave on Monday if you have a long drive, let me know and I’ll check availability with our host. If you’d prefer to travel by train, we are happy to ferry you to and from the station, just ask. Please aim to arrive no later than 2pm as we have a lot of pattern cutting and fabric choosing to get through on Friday! Friday The fun starts here as you arrive at your weekend home-from-home – a beautifully refurbished, 4-star 18th century coaching inn with all the comforts you would expect. You’ll have time to settle into your own delightfully comfortable en-suite room which has all the anticipated little luxuries, before an introductory get-together with me and your companions in the sewing room at 2pm. You’ll be given your own copy of the bag pattern, which is very beginner- and domestic machine-friendly but which will incorporate a lot of features and techniques that are also in much more complex designs, making this an excellent springboard to any bag you want to make. Then you can wallow in the plentiful stash of fabrics to choose from, including some of my exclusive feature panel prints which aren’t available anywhere else. All the materials, interfacing, stabiliser, threads and bag hardware you need are supplied. As soon as you’re ready, you can start preparing and cutting out your pattern and some of the bag pieces so we can hit the ground running in the morning. After a superbly-cooked and substantial evening meal at around 6pm or so, you are welcome to continue working in the sewing room or to simply relax and chat there before bed. Saturday After an excellent breakfast, we can really start work adding to and adapting your bag pattern. You’ll work at your own pace from around 9am with no pressure – I want your weekend to be fun and not stressful! We will walk through the techniques together and I will be there the whole time to answer questions and troubleshoot any tricky bits. You’ll also have the chance to try sewing with faux leather , if you haven’t already, and we’ll explore ways and techniques to use and apply rivets.  Refreshments are freely available all day and you can take a break whenever you wish. A light lunch (with homemade cake!!) is also provided and we’ll have a short break in the middle of the day. The rest of the day will be similar to Friday – sewing, dinner at 6ish and more sewing if you wish to before bed. Do feel free to have a walk or just sit outside for a breather if the weather is kind. Sunday How can it be Sunday already?? Breakfast over, we’ll get back to work. You will need to allow a few minutes to pack and check out of your room, as it has to be made ready for Monday’s guests. Apart from that, it’s uninterrupted sewing (with refreshments and lunch breaks!) until your bag is finished. We’ll be heading off for lunch at 12.30pm or so. We have the sewing room for the rest of the day. If you don’t quite get done, there’s absolutely no need to worry as you’ll easily be able to complete your bag at home. If you finish earlier feel free to head home whenever you’re ready. Amongst loads of other hints and tips, you’ll learn – Interfacings – what to use and not to use Using stabilisers – which is best and why How to create a zipped pocket the pro way Adding a recessed zipper main closure to almost any bag Installing hardware Incorporating a built-in key fob Installing a rectangular base Sewing the bag together and topstitching A sneaky way of getting your bag right-sides-out without ugly seams! An easy way to add a zipper pull without tools Working with different types of rivet machine Faux leather on a domestic machine You’ll have handouts on all the techniques to take home. And I hope you have a lot of fun and make new friends while you learn!!  I never abandon my students at the end of the course so if you get stuck on anything at home, you are welcome to give me a shout on Messenger and we’ll sort out your problem together. The not-so-small print Book your place using the simple booking system below – just click on your choice of dates and go from there. The full price is £395.00. The deposit of £60 is non-refundable if you cancel but can, however, be credited towards a future retreat booked within the next 6 months. It is completely refundable if I or the venue cancel. The booking page only shows the Friday, but the course is running until Sunday. The balance of £335.00 is payable by approx 6 weeks before the retreat date and payment instructions will be sent to you in good time. Cancellations 4 weeks or less before the retreat date can only be refunded if someone on the waiting list can come instead. *Don’t worry that your booking confirmation may be headed Unicorn Studios – it’s just the site that I’ve run my booking system from for years… it’s not a scam!! *