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Advanced pleating skills for lampshades

A four day masterclass in creative pleating skills for lampshade makers

 

Sunburst, sun-ray, swathed, fan, knife, box…. these are the names of just some of the creative pleating styles used in lampshade making. Mastering these techniques using fine and often challenging fabrics such as silk chiffon is the next step towards making sophisticated and creative lampshades.

  

About the course

This four-day masterclass is designed and delivered by lampshade maker and author Joanna Heptinstall. Students will begin by mastering a range of creative pleating styles such as fan, swathed and sunburst pleats on sample-sized frames and will then design and make create their own pleated lampshade to their own design.

Creative, industrious and packed with information, this high-level course is suitable for those with some experience in lampshade making. 

Days one and two

You will be taught a repertoire of creative pleating styles. These will include: knife; swathed; box; pinched box; fan; sunray; and sunburst pleats. You will work in cotton muslin on small 6in shade frames. During these two days Joanna will coach you as you design the full-sized pleated lampshade that you will make on days three and four.

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Days three and four

You will make a pleated lampshade to your own design and choice of fabrics and trimmings. You will learn how to construct the shade, and will be encouraged to show off your newly-learned pleating skills using silk and cotton lawns, silk chiffon and georgette – all staples of the classic pleated lampshade. Use of fringe trimmings, tassels and braids is actively encouraged and you’ll learn best practice for layering these to maximum effect.

Skill level

This course has been designed as a follow-on course for Joanna’s other lampshade courses. It is suitable for lampshade makers who have already learned tailored and simple pleating skills, even at hobby level, and are hoping to advance to more creative pleated lampshades.
If in doubt as to whether this course is suitable for you, do pop us a quick email. It’ll be great to hear from you.

Forthcoming dates

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