Textile Design

The BA Textile Design course is one of the leading courses of its kind in the UK and Europe.

The proximity of workshops to studios is an indication of the emphasis placed on 'making' as part of Chelsea's identity. There is an opportunity for induction into the wood, metal and ceramics workshops in the second year of the course, enabling a wider range of materials to be included in practice. By the end of the course students are expected to have generated something new, whether applying a new process per se, or applying an existing process, within a new context.

The course also recognises the importance of new technologies in the development of textiles and students are encouraged to creatively exploit the potential of specialist process production within the subject.

Sustainability is a distinctive feature of the course, with environmental issues and concerns embedded in all stages of the curriculum, and underpinned by research staff and visiting practitioners.

Course Structure

Year 1:

Experimental practical workshops help you decide what to specialise in by accessing London's educational, industrial and professional resources to inform and inspire visual research into contemporary fashion and interior fabric production. The theory programme introduces students to contemporary debates within textiles, including a 'Green' Textile Lecture series. You may also participate in Alternative Fashion Week held at Spitalfields Market in London.

Year 2:

Involves a variety of projects including work-based learning, live projects and simulated professional conditions, all of which provide the opportunity to make valuable contacts. Students usually participate in the prestigious Indigo Exhibition in Paris, and develop innovative design through linked projects, set by international companies. An issue-based theory programme encourages deeper reflection and debate combined with 'Contemporary Practice' talks by visiting designers

There is also an opportunity for you to study abroad either in Europe (Germany, France, Sweden and Finland) assisted by the Erasmus exchange programme; or in the USA where exchanges are via a programme set up with both Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York and with Rhode Island School of Design.

Year 3:

You will further explore and evolve your design understanding through self-directed project work, and participation in student competitions. A written thesis explores subject matter linked to your design interests in order to support and broaden your emerging design identity.