Gathered fabric lampshades with Eloise Scotland

Sewing, embroidery and accessories

Ref: S2D12442

Suitable for all £299
Print
Book now

Places available

About this course

Immerse yourself in colour and pattern, and learn the skills necessary to make your own unique gathered lampshade, using traditional hand stitching techniques.

Course Description

On this course, you will be taught the skills needed to make your own, bespoke, hand stitched lampshade. You will be taught mainly as a group, with individual discussion and tuition given as needed to develop specific ideas or to practise key techniques.

The course will begin on the first evening with an explanation about different styles of lampshades and discussion about the key role that they can play as part of a vibrant and interesting interior design scheme. We will look at different textiles, colours and patterns, and you will be encouraged to talk about the fabrics that you have brought with you – hopefully, this won’t be too daunting in a room full of supportive textile enthusiasts!

Over the following two days, the tutor will guide you through the process of making your gathered lampshade from start to finish. The following core skills will be covered: binding the lampshade frame, measuring and manipulating the fabric to create the gathers, lining the lampshade, finishing and adding trimmings.

The course predominantly involves hand stitching and a small amount of machine sewing. No previous experience of either is required, just a passion for textiles and the patience to sit and enjoy the process of hand stitching.

At the end of the course, we will discuss the sourcing of frames, materials and other supplies. Additional frames and a small quantity of fabric will be available to purchase from your tutor. You will leave the course with the confidence and knowledge (and enthusiasm!) to go on to create your own beautiful gathered lampshades after the course has finished.

Timetable

Arrival Day - this is the first date listed above

Courses start early evening. Residential students to arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm.

6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included).

8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential.

Daily timetable

Classes 9.15 - 5pm, lunch is included.

From 6.30pm: Dinner (included for residential students).

Evening working - students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with their tutor's permission and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.

Last day

Classes 9.15am - 3pm, lunch is included.

Residential students are to vacate their rooms by 10am please.

(This timetable is for courses of more than one day in length. The tutor may make slight variations)

Course Materials

Included

  • On this course, the tutor will supply a lampshade frame and suitable lining fabric.

What students need to bring

  • One metre of suitable lightweight cotton or silk fabric (of standard 136cm width)
  • Cotton lawn (e.g. Liberty) or quilting weight cotton is ideal, as are most lightweight, block printed, Indian cottons.
  • A basic sewing kit (including fabric scissors, needles, pins, tailors chalk, a thimble and a tape measure)
  • Any trimming that you wish to incorporate into your finished lampshade (one metre should be sufficient)
  • A sewing machine, if you wish to use your own
  • A notebook and pencil

Available to buy

  • Available from shop:
  • Threads and needles are available to buy from the shop
  • Available from tutor:
  • Additional frames will be available to purchase if you wish to make a second or matching lampshade. A small amount of fabric will also be available to buy. All items will be charged individually and you’ll need to pay the tutor before the end of the course.
Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio. This includes stout covered footwear, i.e. no open-toes or sandals, and safety boots, if specified.

Tutors

Eloise Scotland

Eloise Scotland is a contemporary lampshade maker and tutor, with a passion for pattern and colour. Having trained originally as an upholsterer, Eloise soon realised that lampshades allowed more opportunity to indulge her love of textiles. She works directly with individual clients and interior designers to make bespoke pieces using traditional techniques.

Accommodation

Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.

Courses of interest

Further study options

Take the next step in your creative practice, with foundation level to Masters in Fine Art study. 

Depending on your experience, start with an Online Foundation Certificate in Art and Design (one year, part-time), a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design made up of 10 short courses taken over two years (part-time) or a Diploma in Art and Contemporary Crafts (10 three-day study blocks, over two years). All will help you develop core skills, find direction in your practice and build an impressive portfolio in preparation for artist opportunities or higher-level study. See all degree and diploma courses.

Sign-up to be the first to know

Sign up to our Short Course enews to hear about new courses, late availability and get creative inspiration delivered straight to your inbox.