Rowena Luke-King

This course will expand on skills learnt in Vintage Clutch Bags and Framed Purses Level 1 and introduce you to the specialist tools and techniques used when stitching soft leathers. You will learn how to draft patterns for a collection of clutch bags and purses exploring different types of fastenings and frames;  introducing gathers, tucks and pleats; gussets and dividers; pockets, straps and handles. You will test your patterns in calico and card and experiment with decorative techniques on leather such as hand painting, embroidery and appliqué. You will learn how to add piping, cover a purse frame and depending  on how quickly you work, will complete this exciting new course by making up in soft leather, at least two or three of your designs. To study on this intermediate/advanced course you should feel confident when using an industrial sewing machine and have a basic understanding of bag making. Either Vintage Clutch Bags and Framed Purses Level 1 or Bag Making will prepare you for this course.

For more information please visit http://www.rowenalukeking.blogspot.com.

Rowena Luke-King has had an extremely diverse career in design. She has worked as a designer and colour consultant for textile design studios and leading retailers such as Marks & Spencer and NEXT. She has produced collections of clothes, accessories, hand printed fabrics, greetings cards and wrapping papers for a number of stores including Fiorucci and has worked as a stylist in the music industry (stage clothes that she created for 'Adam and the Ants' have been exhibited in the Victoria & Albert Museum). Rowena studied fashion and textiles at Central Saint Martins and is currently involved in sourcing vintage fabrics for the fashion industry.