Textile Design

UCAS code: W231

Here's what Hereford College of Arts says about its Textile Design course.

Textile design plays an important role in fashion and interiors but is also at the cutting-edge of a wide range of other design solutions such as architecture, automotive and bio-materials. With sustainability and emerging technologies at the heart of contemporary design thinking, it is an exciting time for our students as the role of textiles is re-imagined across many aspects of modern life.

On this dynamic and well-structured course, you will be introduced to a wide-range of textile processes, ranging from screen-printing to digital sublimation printing, and from hand weaving on a loom, through to digital electronic programming of stitch and 3D printing. Expert technical demonstrators will teach you new techniques and encourage you to experiment, test and play. You also have the opportunity to develop your skills in other workshops such as photography, mould-making, 3D fabrication and more.

On this course, you will explore innovative design in a variety of materials: from cloth to paper, plastic to wood, metal to soil and much more. In the design process, you will be encouraged to consider a wide range of issues such as sustainability, global cultural narratives, and the growing desire for sensory experiences in an increasingly virtual world.

We encourage group discussions and hold regular peer-to-peer feedback sessions so that students can encourage and support each another. One-on-one tutor time means you get the individual help you need with a variety of projects. You could be working on anything from interior printed textile designs, to the fabrics and materials for use in aerospace, electric cars and futuristic autonomous vehicles.

You will have an individual workspace throughout your studies, and extensive contact-time with an expert staff team who can share a wealth of industry experience through studio practice and workshops.

All students take Critical Studies, where you can gain fascinating insights into the subject you love. You will explore your specialism and the work of those you admire. We will help you to see your own practice in context with your peers and predecessors; leading to, not only a greater understanding of the rich and varied practice of Textile Design, but who you want to be as a Textile Designer. The things you discover in Critical Studies will help you answer the question: where do I want to take my practice?

Industry Links

You will work with an exciting team of external practitioners, currently featuring material research consultant and founder of Ma-tt-er studio, Seetal Solanki; surface pattern designer Eve Campbell; Kate Morris, creator and designer of cruelty free vegan knitwear brand CROP; and artisan woven and embroidered textile manufacturer, Alice Timmis.

After this Course

You will be well-placed to access employment opportunities in the dynamic textiles industry, including: designing for fashion, textiles, and interior; applications in automotive and aviation sector; stylist, trend forecaster; as well as related marketing, media, along with opportunities for further study.

Highlights

• Exceptional access to workshops across disciplines. • Great level of individual support from tutors and technical demonstrators • The opportunity to learn from a range of industry experts with our high-profile external partners and visiting speakers • A pioneering new module exploring colour, material and finish, co-developed with the industry • Live briefs developed alongside design studios and brand head offices both locally and nationally • The chance to have your work exhibited and sold across the globe at industry trade fairs such as Premier Vision in Paris and New York and New Designers • The opportunity to explore topical issues such as sustainability and the transformational potential of textiles in contemporary design • Module timescales are aligned with industry pace, to ensure our students are fully prepared to step into the world of work.

From your first day at HCA you will work as a creative, developing your skills and your own voice through a series of projects. You will develop your creative practice, practical skills alongside your critical awareness and theoretical knowledge. You will study a range of modules that build your knowledge and confidence and total 120 credits each year.

YEAR ONE/Level 4: Practice in Context 1 (20 Credits), Practice 1?(30), Practice 2 (30), Foundations for Learning?(20). Skills 1 (20)

YEAR TWO/Level 5: Practice in Context 2?(20), Practice 3 (30), Practice 4 (30), Professional Practice 1?(20), Skills 2?(20)

YEAR THREE/Level 6: Practice in Context 3?(20), Practice 5?(30), Practice 6 (60), Professional Practice 2?(10)