Tricky Tailored Shapes - a lampshade masterclass

Vintage dome-shaped shades, a Tiffany-inspired bell, or something rather curvy from the 1940s... they are all fabulous and they require particular techniques for pattern cutting and fitting. This workshop is designed to bring lampshaders on to the next level...
Once the lampshade maker has perfected the craft of covering a scalloped empire shade, they are bound to set their sights on something tricker. This course is designed to unveil the mysteries of unusual and challenging lampshade shapes, and allow lampshaders to spread their creative wings and deal with them confidently. 
Students will be working inverted dome shaped shades.We all be studying: pattern cutting for curvaceous shapes; using fabric on the straight of the grain; fitting a lining into a dome; artful layering of fringing and gimp braid.
Whatever your experience, creativity and experimentation will be actively encouraged. Your expert tutors are upholsterer, lampshade-maker and author of Sewing Lampshades Joanna Heptinstall, and expert upholsterer and lampshade maker Eloise Scotland.
Who's it for? This course is open to makers who have already mastered basic lampshade making.

What we provide? Students will be provided with an inverted dome shade. We will supply plain antique white lining, binding tape, a selection of white and natural fringing and gimp braids. Pins, needles and threads are all available for use. We will keep your creativity fuelled all day long with plenty of tea, coffee and homemade cake ;-))

What to bring? Students should bring their own fabric, and are welcome to bring their own lining and trimmings if they would like a particular colour match. Students are encouraged to bring their own haberdashery kit and sewing machine, as we find most people like to work with their own. Let us know if you'd like us to provide a sewing machine. Most students prefer to bring a packed lunch but you can also buy something from the fabulous Field Kitchen cafe next door.

Class duration:                 Two days, 9.30am to 5pm.
Forthcoming dates:        We hope to set new 2021 dates for this wonderful course in early spring. Do email if you are interested and we will keep you posted. Thank you x       
Fee:                                        £245
Suitability:                         Basic lampshade skills required (please ask if unsure).
This course has been postponed due to Covid-related travel restrictions. New dates will be planned very soon for early 2021. Do get in touch by email if you are keen to book. Thank you.

To book your place, email traditionalupholsteryschool@gmail.com. We will reply with our banking details and will be able to answer any  questions about the course. Your booking will be confirmed on receipt of the deposit of £100.
Please note that as minimum numbers are required, we reserve the right to cancel the course if we get insufficient bookings. We will aim to give you 10 days notice and will fully refund your fee if we have to cancel.