Bag Making Summer School

On this extensive leather bag making course you'll get the opportunity to really understand the world of bag making and working with leather. As a small group (maximum 10 students) you will explore popular bag shapes, learn basic pattern cutting techniques, understand different bag constructions, attend leather merchants, and make three bags working on industrial sewing machines. The course takes place in our Golden Lane campus, near the Barbican, where all the specialist materials and equipment you would find in industry, are available for you to use. Guided by two expert tutors, who are also working in the industry, you will make, from a pattern, your own cross body satchel, a decorative structured bag, and a bag of your own design, which will give you an opportunity to understand the different bag constructions. All leather, trimmings, materials and tools will be provided except for your last project where you will need to buy your own leather.

The course includes:

• Pattern cutting techniques
• Using industrial sewing machines
• Access to specialist leather machines
• Stitching on the curve
• Leather techniques and understanding different types of leathers
• Guided visit to leather and fitting merchants in London
• Sourcing leather
• Industry terminology

Course Schedule:

Topic 1- Pattern cutting and machine introduction - exploring bag construction types, seams and silhouettes.

Topic 2 - Cross body bag – Increasing your understanding of curved gusset bags and develop your understanding of the bag making process and developing your machining skills. Choosing the appropriate leather for your projects.

Topic 3 - Structured bags – Introduction to the skiving machines, fittings and a different way to insert lining. Ways of finishing an edge and understanding how to create a stiffer bag using bag construction and reinforcements behind the leather.

Topic 4 - Designing your final bag – Introduction to Spec sheets for production. Understanding different types of leather and their application with a trip to leather suppliers in London. Smaller design details will also be taught in this week which will help guide towards your final design. Pattern cutting for your design and toiles making.

Topic 5 – Making your own bag – 1-1 with tutors to finalise the design of the bag and discuss the order of work and construction process for you to be able to do this by yourself in the future. Prepare all components of your design and finish your bag.

At the end of the course along with your bags you will leave with a folder of pattern and shape examples which you can reference when creating future work.

Level:

Beginners. You should have an interest in the subject area and a desire to learn but no previous experience is required.

Booking:

Your course place is confirmed once you have booked online or via the phone using a credit or debit card. There is no deadline for booking. Places are offered on a first come, first served basis, and all courses have a maximum number of students. We suggest you book early to avoid disappointment.