ABOUT THE COURSE
This one day course in the Hampshire South Downs will equip participants with the basic skills to create an accessory from secondhand clothing by learning about how to unpick and deconstruct items, cut basic patterns and sew simple seams. There will be an opportunity to learn how to use a domestic sewing machine to assist with the day’s tasks. By the end of the day, students should feel confident in producing an up-cycled hat or tote bag from pre-existing garments.
This course is intended to teach participants how to utilise textile and garment waste in order to create an upcycled bucket hat or tote bag. As one of the top three polluting industries globally, there are enough fashion products to clothe the next seven generations. As global citizens it is important for us to learn how to repurpose old pieces and give them new life, rather than producing new products and increasing demand on virgin resources. One way to educate people, is by giving them the tools and experience to understand the logistics behind clothing and fabric accessories and the skills to extend the life of clothing they no longer want to wear.
This course is intended to teach participants how to utilise textile and garment waste in order to create an upcycled bucket hat or tote bag. As one of the top three polluting industries globally, there are enough fashion products to clothe the next seven generations. As global citizens it is important for us to learn how to repurpose old pieces and give them new life, rather than producing new products and increasing demand on virgin resources. One way to educate people, is by giving them the tools and experience to understand the logistics behind clothing and fabric accessories and the skills to extend the life of clothing they no longer want to wear.
THE COURSE WILL GIVE YOU
- An understanding of how to deconstruct a secondhand garment to utilise its fabric for up-cycling
- An idea of how to use a ready made pattern (provided) to produce either a hat or tote bag
- A personal hat or tote bag produced from up cycled garments
- An understanding of how to sew on a domestic sewing machine
You will take home with you the item you have made and a paper pattern of a tote bag/hat if you would like to recreate the project at home in other materials.
THIS COURSE IS SUITABLE FOR
Beginners. Some previous experience of sewing and using a sewing machine would be helpful.
WHAT TO BRING/WEAR
- Some non-stretch fabric garments to upcycle e.g. old jeans, shirts. Consider any details you might want to include in either your hat or bag such as prints, buttons, pockets. Appropriate materials include denim, cotton, canvas, non-stretch synthetics if appropriate. Emily will guide you on what is suitable for your chosen project.
- A sewing machine if you have one
- Fabric scissors if you have some
- Matching threads if you would like a particular colour (threads will also be provided in a variety of shades)
- Optional - your own sewing kit - hand sewing needles, thread snips etc.
- Packed lunch (please note our café is closed early January)
ABOUT THE TUTOR
Emily Tan is founder of 1800 Gallons - a fashion label seeking to create a more cyclical approach to design through the use of repurposed and deadstock textiles. The 1800 philosophy falls in line with a slow approach; garments are built to last and transform with time. A core collection of classic denim pieces reflects this commitment to long-term wear which can be returned and repurposed time and time again. The name 1800 Gallons refers to the reported amount of water needed to grow the cotton for one pair of jeans. Emily teaches sustainable fashion courses at Kingston University.
1800gallons.com
1800gallons.com
Check Out Accommodation
You can get 10% discount when you stay with us during your course for 2 nights or more in our campsite or eco lodge. Please call us on 01730 823166 to make your accommodation booking. Our reception is open Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm.
