Where will this course lead?

By the end of the course learners will:

• Understand sustainable textile design approaches

• Use sewing machines with increased confidence

• Learn batik, screen printing and tie-dye techniques

• Make finished items including a tote bag, printed T-shirt and beach dress

• Develop practical construction and creative design skills

What will I study?

Week 1 - Introduction to Sustainable Textiles & Batik

• Introduction to upcycling and sustainable fashion

• Understanding fabrics, tools and safe workshop practice

• Learn batik wax resist techniques and fabric dyeing

Achievement: Create a unique batik textile sample.

Week 2 - Sewing Skills & Tote Bag Construction

• Learn how to confidently use a sewing machine

• Measuring, cutting and basic seam construction

• Construct a reusable tote bag using upcycled fabric. Use to put your suncream and  towel in

Achievement: Complete a functional tote bag to take home.

Week 3 - Screen Printing onto a T-Shirt

• Introduction to screen printing techniques

• Create a print using stencils privided. Understand placement and composition

• Print designs onto a T-shirt

Achievement: Produce a personalised printed T-shirt. Ready for Summer 

Week 4 - Tie Dye & Start Beach Dress Construction

• Explore tie-dye techniques and colour pattern creation

• Prepare and dye fabric. Upcycle a piece of clothing.

• Begin cutting and assembling the simple beach dress

Achievement: Create dyed fabric and start garment construction.

Week 5 - Complete Simple Beach Dress

• Continue garment assembly and embellishment 

• Learn finishing techniques such as hems and straps

Achievement: Complete a wearable simple beach dress.

How will this course be delivered?

This is a practical course and is designed so that students are enabled to work on individual projects. The delivery is led by tutor demonstration.

How do I get a place on the course?

Please contact our student services department by dialling 0121 678 7000 - option 1, followed by option 2 then option 3.  If you are unable to get through, please send an e-mail to Community@solihull.ac.uk.

What are the entry requirements?

You must be aged 19+

If you have learning difficulty or a disability please let us know when you apply. 

What else do I need to know?

The tutor will inform you on the first session of any tools and equipment that are required. They will also have a list of suppliers where these will be available. Sewing machines are available for student use while at the centre.

Please note: Materials are not supplied for Cakes, Flowers/Floristry, Textiles, Soft Furnishings, Homemade Crafts, Calligraphy, Art, Cookery, Tiling, Painting & Decorating, Sewing or Dressmaking.

Students are responsible for providing their own materials and books.

Solihull College and University Centre offers full time and part time courses for businesses and residents in Birmingham, Walsall, Wolverhampton, Coventry, Warwickshire and the whole of the West Midlands.