Sewing for Home - Lampshade - Artist-inspired & Contemporary Designs

Course intent

To produce a lampshade from a kit and make it bespoke: inspired by an artist or piece of art using colours that match your home or as a gift.

What will I learn?

Many interior designers and manufacturers use artists and their art as inspiration. Probably the most recognizable today will be Picasso’s muse, Dora Maar and Frida Kahlo, who's images you will find in ceramics, soft furnishing and fashion. You will choose an artist or piece of art as your personal visual reference to decorate and embellish your shade and tailor it to compliment colours in your own home, where you wish to showcase your work. We will look at complimentary and clashing colours depending on your choice.

You will learn how to measure, cut and construct your base lampshade from a kit, using your own fabric and the components supplied and then use your visual reference as a base for decorating the basic lampshade using a combination of applied trimmings, applique and embroidery, to produce a unique covered shade.

Who is this course for? Is there anything I need to know before joining?

This course is for all abilities. Basic knowledge of sewing and sewing techniques will be useful, but not essential.

What do I need to bring to the first class? Will there be any extra costs?

A lamp shade kit which will cost you about £18 - £20 40cm Lampshade Kits | Crafts | Calico Laine

Fabric glue

Pencil, disappearing embroidery pen and the longest ruler you have (preferably a metre rule) and/or set square.

Basic sewing kit of pins, needles, tape measure and scissors. 50cm base fabric – can be from a previous project and printed if that fits your reference. Cotton and linens work well, medium weight and furnishing width.

Matching all- purpose thread.

A selection of trimmings, buttons, lace, fabric scraps etc to use as decoration. These don't have to be flat!

What can I do when I finish the course?

You can continue to expand your skills by trying more complicated designs, different applied techniques and signing up for courses in different sewing areas.

Additional Information

We welcome learners with additional needs and disabilities. When you enrol, please let us know if you would like to discuss your extra support needs with a member of the Supported Learning Team who will then contact you as soon as possible. If you are enrolling within 10 days of the course start date, we may not be able to contact you before your first class.

How to enrol

Our courses are for adult learners aged 19 or over. If you are under 19, please call 0300 200 1044.

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