Program Overview

Introduction to Textile Design and Sustainability for 15 - 17 Year Olds

The Textile Design and Sustainability course is a short program designed for young, ambitious designers aged 15-17. This summer course aims to introduce participants to various aspects of textile design, focusing on sustainability and creative expression.

Course Details

• Level of Study: Short course
• Course Fee: È545
• Start Date: 3 August 2026
• Duration: Monday to Friday, 10 am - 4 pm, for one week
• Study Mode: Part-time
• Campus: City Campus

What You'll Study

During this course, participants will:

• Understand design responsibility and material awareness
• Be introduced to textile materials and sustainable designs
• Follow tutor demonstrations to create their own artworks
• Learn about various textile techniques and surface decoration
• Explore mark making in experimental ways
• Dye fabrics and other surfaces with natural materials
• Learn about pattern repeat and Adobe Photoshop
• Create impact through their work and be inspired to develop their ideas

Course Structure

The course is structured into five days, each focusing on a different aspect of textile design and sustainability:

• Day One: Sustainable Textiles and Natural Dye Techniques
• Day Two: Mastering Screen Printing with Natural Dyes
• Day Three: Artistic Exploration through Leaf Printing and Heat Transfer
• Day Four: Pattern Repeats Handmade and Digital
• Day Five: Project and Portfolio Building

Tutor Profile

The course is led by Suzanne Ager, a textile artist and graduate of Nottingham Trent University. Suzanne uses print and stitch to create art pieces that capture the beauty and character of British wildlife.

Careers and Employability

The course is designed to give participants a real experience of university life, help them make new friends with similar interests, and develop their portfolio. Previous students have gone on to study or work in designing, buying and merchandising, global sourcing, textiles product development, styling and trend prediction, marketing, and teaching.

Campus and Facilities

Participants will be based in the School of Art and Design on the City Campus, with access to collaborative working spaces, dye facilities, digital print facilities, and the university's library.

Entry Requirements

• Participants must be 15, 16, or 17 years old at the time of the course.
• An enthusiasm for animation and an interest in developing creative and technical skills are required.

Fees and Funding

• The course fee is È545.
• Payment is due at the time of booking.
• Participants are required to bring an A3 sketchbook, a basic selection of pens and pencils, and all other materials will be provided.

Accommodation

Accommodation can be booked separately for È266 per week, which includes single rooms with a private bathroom in shared apartments on the city campus. Participants aged 16 or 17 can stay unaccompanied with agreement from a parent/guardian, while those aged 15 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.