Tapestry: Basic Techniques (Credit) (10 credit points)

Special Information

Materials you will need to bring to the first class:

• Sketchbook

• Pair of scissors - small fine pointed embroidery scissors

• Tapestry needles

• Ruler / measuring tape

• Felt pens (non-waterproof)

In addition to the course fee, students are expected to provide the following list of indicative tools, materials and equipment:

• Sketchbook

• Pair of scissors - small fine pointed embroidery scissors

• Tapestry needles

• Ruler / measuring tape

• Felt pens (non-waterproof)

• Your own wooden weaving frame

• Painting canvas stretcher is ideal approx. 45cm x 55cm

• Yarns and materials you would like to experiment with

• Table clamps (optional)

• Tapestry bobbins

Content of Course

Over the class sessions the course will cover:

1. Introduction to historic and contemporary tapestry.

2. Exploring a range of  traditional weaving materials.

3. Setting up a loom.

4. Controlling your weft tension.

5. Creating, shapes, lines and pattern woven tapestry.

6. Exploring the structure of weave / dealing with slits.

7. Developing a research journal / sketchbooks.

8. Developing a personal project.

9. Presenting your work.

Teaching method(s)

The teaching will be based and delivered in specialist art and design studios or workshops and will typically include a range of practical exercises, introductions to techniques, processes and concepts, and set projects which lead to more focused and personal exploration. Over the course, students’ progress will be monitored and supported by the tutor.  Teaching will include practical demonstrations, one to one tuition, group discussions and critiques.

For work required to be undertaken after the class hours are complete, the course tutor will set students a ‘directed study plan’ which can be undertaken without the need for specialist workshops or access to models.

Directed study will include research into a range of suggested artists and their associated movements to engender a contextual awareness. Students are expected to demonstrate how their research has informed their work through annotated sketchbooks, a visual digital journal and practical outcomes. 

The Directed Study Plan will include preparing evidence of research and practical work to form an appropriate presentation for assessment.

Learning outcomes

On completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• Use a range of strategies to develop a personal language through a range of research, building a sketchbook / visual journal which demonstrate an understanding and contextual awareness of the creative potential of tapestry.

• Demonstrate the basic skills of tapestry weaving, producing a range of woven samples, exploring the qualities unique to woven textiles, explored through your journal / sketchbook ideas.

• Demonstrate an awareness of how to document, select, edit and present a coherent body of work which has been underpinned by your research and practice.

Sources

Core Readings

Recommended:

• SOROKA, J. 2011. Tapestry Weaving. Ramsbury: Crowood.

• BEUTLICH, T. 1967. The Technique Of Woven Tapestry. London: Batsford.

• WILCOX, Timothy, Fiona Mathison, and Caron Penney. 2011. Tapestry. London: Black Dog.

• 1976. Victorian Tapestry Workshop. South Melbourne, Victoria, Australia: Workshop, Print.

• Telos. Textiles of the world. (set of contemporary textile art book)

Journal and periodicals:

• Selvage, Crafts Magazine, The Journal of WSD, Embroidery

Web Sources

www.weaversbazaar.com

www.handweavers.co.uk

www.thebritishtapestrygroup.co.uk

www.tapestry.dk

www.americantapestryalliance.org

www.dovecotstudios.com

www.victapestry.com.au/news_index.aspx

Assessment

Details of the Art and Design assessment requirements can be found on the short course website. Please click on the following link for more information: Submission and Assessment Information

Studying for Credit

If you choose to study for credit you will need to allocate significant time outwith classes for coursework and assessment preparation. Credit points gained from this course can count towards the Certificate of Higher Education.

Queries

If you have questions regarding the course or enrolment, please contact COL Reception at Paterson's Land by email COL@ed.ac.uk or by phone 0131 650 4400.

Student support

If you have a disability, learning difficulty or health condition which may affect your studies, please let us know by ticking the 'specific support needs' box on your course application form. This will allow us to make appropriate adjustments in advance and in accordance with your rights under the Equality Act 2010. For more information please visit the Student Support section of our website.