Soft furnishings - all abilities

This course is suitable for mixed-ability learners able to either follow the set syllabus or work on their own projects with help and guidance from the tutor.

Additional costs may be incurred for the materials used during the course.

Learner & Entry Requirements: 

No experience or technical skills required; no special clothing.

General & First Session: 

If you already have basic sewing equipment (not a machine - pins, sewing cotton, needles, tape measure, scissors) please bring it, but do not purchase it specifically for the course until after the first class.  KAE is unable to offer refunds for any materials, equipment or books if the course is subsequently closed.  Learners buy fabric for their own projects, but fabric for any samples they make is supplied.

Course Aim & Objective: 

To give a good grounding in the techniques required to make Soft Furnishings, selecting styles, colours and fabrics.

By the end of the course you should be able to measure and calculate fabric quantities for your chosen projects, and have learned the techniques required to finish your project.

Assessment: 

Informal and continuous - by question and answer sessions and completion of your project/samples.

On this course you will develop some the following skills and knowledge depending on you your chosen projects:

• Use a sewing machine with confidence
• Prepare and cut fabric
• Take accurate measurements for window treatments
• Make and attach piping
• Insert a zip
• Mitre a corner for curtains
• Attach heading tape to curtains
• Calculate and make hand finished pleats for curtains
• Calculate and attach pockets for Roman blinds

Topics covered vary depending on the requirements of the learners, but could be from the following range:

Lined and interlined curtains, pelmets, swags and tails, tie-backs, cushions, lampshades, blinds, bedding.