Explore the art of textile design in this hands-on, creative workshop. Guided by a professional Textile and Interior Designer, you will learn how to apply custom painting techniques, master distinct brushtrokes, and use everyday objects to print unique patterns onto fabric. Participants will have the opportunity to paint or print on premium linen blanks including tea-towels, cushion covers, or table runners. Materials included in fee with option to purchase additional materials on the day. See web for more details.

Intro to Fabric Printing & Painting

Course Description

Discover the creative possibilities of fabric printing and painting in this inspiring hands-on workshop. 

Guided by a professional Textile and Interior Designer, you'll explore a range of techniques for transforming plain fabric into beautiful, personalised textile pieces. 

Whether you're looking to refresh your home décor, create thoughtful handmade gifts or simply enjoy learning a new creative skill, this beginner-friendly workshop provides a fun and supportive introduction to textile design.

Throughout the workshop, you'll experiment with expressive brushstrokes, fabric painting techniques and creative printing methods using everyday objects to produce unique patterns and designs. 

You'll then apply your new skills to a premium linen item, choosing from a tea towel, cushion cover or table runner. 

Course Structure

This practical workshop combines tutor demonstrations with hands-on creative exploration and individual guidance. 

Students will begin by learning the fundamentals of fabric painting and printing before experimenting with brush techniques, colour application and pattern creation using a variety of tools and everyday objects. 

Once familiar with the techniques, students will design and decorate a premium linen item of their choice, developing their own creative style while receiving personalised support throughout the workshop. 

By the end of the session, each participant will have completed a unique handcrafted textile piece to take home.

Course Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

• Understand the basic principles of fabric painting and printing
• Apply a variety of brushstroke and fabric painting techniques
• Create decorative patterns using everyday objects as printing tools
• Design and decorate a linen textile item using their own creative ideas
• Develop confidence in colour selection and pattern composition
• Complete a personalised fabric project to take home
• Build the skills and confidence to continue exploring fabric printing and painting at home.

Course Requirements

Students are asked to wear old, comfortable clothing or bring a protective apron, as fabric paints may stain.

All essential materials are included in the course fee, including a premium linen item (tea towel, cushion cover or table runner). Additional linen items will be available for purchase on the day for students who wish to complete extra projects.

Your Tutor is Suzanne Phillips

Suzanne Phillips BA (VA) has been teaching at WEA since 2023. 

Suzanne has many interests and loves Sweden, where she was born and lived for 18 years. She has studied the equivalent of year twelve in the Swedish language. She has also studied Swedish to English translation at the University of Halmstad. During her 18 years in Sweden, she taught English from the Swedish language and gave private tutoring.

Her interests include Scandinavian design, singing, photography, fashion and she is a historical re-enactor of the Viking Age!  

Suzanne works as a multi-talented designer, photographer, interior decorator, graphic designer, fashion designer and textile designer.