Jan Tregidgo
I teach students individually and consult them beforehand as to their expectations of the course and am flexible enough to cater for their needs. I ensure that the students gell as a group,. sharing specific learning points, but that learning is only part of the whole experience, we have fun as well!
I create an atmosphere which stimulates students to learn and to be inspired and to become more creative. They are encouraged to be happy to ‘have a go’, perhaps make a mistake but be confident in the knowledge that they gain. I just love teaching and watching people grow in confidence and enjoy what they do. I get enormous pleasure and satisfaction from this.
What will students gain if they come on one of your courses?Students become independent learners, confident in their own lace making skills, knowledge & competence. They meet like minded people and often make life long friends. We also have a lot of fun
Are there any particular techniques/processes you use in your teaching?I cover all techniques at Beginners up to Advanced level in the following Bobbin Laces – Torchon, Bedfordshire and Bucks Point. I ensure that students learn the traditional ways of working and so get a good foundation and introduce them to modern ways as well.
What inspires your own work?I am constantly inspired by the beautiful patterns designed by Johann Hdlicka and the Bedfordshire patterns developed by Thomas Lester in the late 19th Century. I also teach Creative Textiles and this is influencing the development of my ‘LetExist’ Contemporary Lace. I now combine traditional Bobbin Lace with creative textile techniques and create 3D bowls, hangings and scarves
Where can students see examples of your work?On my web site.
Where did you gain your training? Experience?
Brighton College of Education + Sussex University - B.ed Hons degree FarehamCollege – City & Guilds 1990 Regional Stage 1 Certificate in Teaching City & Guilds 7307 Further and Adult Education Teachers Certificate. 1991 - 93 City & Guilds Creative Studies in Embroidery Skills and Preparing Working Designs. Part 1 1993 - 95 City & Guilds Creative Studies in Embroidery Skills and Preparing Working Designs. Part 2. 2006 City & Guilds 7722 Machine Embroidery .
Teaching experience:Seven years in Primary Schools Adult Education classes at: Portsmouth University; Portsmouth College; Fareham College; Urchfont Manor – Wilts; Missenden Abbey – Bucks Freelance teaching for Embroiderers Guild Freelance teaching for Lace Guild including Summer Schools and Convention work
Is your work in any public or private collections?Private / family collections
Have you written any books/had articles published?Articles in the Lace Guild Magazine and in WORKBOX magazine.Torchon Lace Making – A step by step guide – Crowood Press - ISBN 9781847972019 (published September 2010)
Do you belong to any professional groups/societies?The Lace Guild OIDFA 98Lace Group