Course overview

This continuation course builds on the foundational skills from introductory textile and fashion courses, deepening your understanding of fabric manipulation, garment construction, and textile design. You will refine your sewing techniques, explore pattern adaptation, and experiment with a wider range of materials and decorative methods. The course covers more advanced stitching techniques, fabric textures, surface embellishment, and different approaches to garment making, including draping, tailoring, and upcycling. By the end of the course, you will feel more confident in your creative choices, develop your unique textile style, and create a small collection of textile pieces showcasing your progress.

Course description

Designed for those who have completed an introductory textiles or sewing course, or have basic experience in fabric work, this course encourages creative exploration and skill development in a supportive environment.

The first few weeks reinforce essential sewing and textile techniques, focusing on improving precision in stitching, understanding different fabric properties, and mastering key construction methods. As the course progresses, you will explore more complex garment-making skills, including pattern drafting, fitting adjustments, and embellishment techniques such as embroidery, appliqué, and printmaking. You will also experiment with fabric manipulation techniques like pleating, smocking, and fabric painting to add texture and depth to your designs.

Through guided exercises and independent projects, you will explore different textile traditions and contemporary fashion influences. Colour and fabric selection will be examined in greater detail, helping you create balanced and expressive designs. Upcycling and sustainable fashion approaches will also be introduced, encouraging creative reuse of materials and ethical design choices.

By the end of the course, you will have gained confidence in your textile and fashion skills, produced a collection of textile or garment pieces demonstrating your personal style, and developed the ability to continue experimenting with textiles independently.

We don't want anything to stand in your way when it comes to bringing Adult learning within reach so if you need anything to support you to achieve your goals then speak to one of our education experts during your enrolment journey. Most of our courses are government funded but if you don't qualify or need alternative financial help to access them then let us know.
All of our digital content, teaching and learning activities and assessments are designed to be accessible so if you need any additional support you can discuss this with the education experts during your enrolment journey and we will do all we can to make sure you have optimal access.

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