Purses, Handbags & Artful Totes

Course Number: ARTS1498

Please note: This course is not suitable for beginners. Intermediate sewing skills are required.
Create your ultimate fantasy and fashion accessory by learning how to design, construct and embellish beautiful bags, purses, cases and totes. The history, cultural significance and specific uses of bags is vast and fascinating. Choose the design of your bag from a wide range of options - designer handbags and purses, delicate evening bags, padded glasses cases with decorative cords, handy cases for cell phones, cards, tiny pouches for jewellery or precious objects, ethnic satchels, and well-designed totes and carry-alls. From large to small, funky/humorous to a serious high-fashion statement and precious to everyday use, the choice is yours. Samples, demonstrations and experiments, techniques, applications and materials will enable you to select, design, pattern draft and construct all the elements of your bag or purse. Manipulated textural surfaces, decorative embellishments, beading, tassels, and specific elements of design regarding finishing details, fastenings, straps, handles, cords, drawstrings, pockets and zippers will be discussed and evaluated in relation to your work. You will also explore the integration of re-purposed, recycled fabric and clothing and the use of ethnic hand-made textiles. You are required to bring a sewing machine in good working order.

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