Some Upcoming Courses at West Dean College

While I am here working away in the Tapestry Studio at West Dean this weekend, I thought you might like to hear about a few of the upcoming textiles courses here - these are just a tiny sample of what is available, there is a rich and wide variety of courses for everyone. Unfortunately, since my last visit some new rooms have been added - I was quite excited to see them since I love new design and West Dean is usually good at new design. However, the new rooms in wings B & H are to be avoided at all costs - they are tiny cells and the tight arrangement would have you sleeping with your ear next to the loo - you are virtually in the bathroom! But the setting here is a dream. Just make sure you have a traditional room!

Caron Penney will be running a course for beginners in tapestry weaving from 5 October 2012 - 7 October 2012. Over this weekend you will make samples as you learn techniques for shaping, shading and weaving diagonals while you gain experience and understanding of this medium. A visit to the West Dean Tapestry Studio is included. The course cost is from £ 191.

From 7 October 2012 to 10 October 2012 Debbie Siniska will be running a course entitled: Rag rugs traditional and contemporary. Another beginners and intermediate course, attendees will explore this old-fashioned 'thrift craft' using traditional tools and techniques and produce wonderfully tactile pieces such as rugs, cushions, bags or even a memory mat from favourite recycled fabrics. The tutor covers several techniques and encourages experimentation with surface decoration. The course costs from £ 273.

Learn to make hand-knitted folk patterned socks in a day on 15 November 2012 with Lucinda Gray. Knit a sample mini sock using five double point needles. Create coloured folk patterns in the round, learn how to shape and knit heels, gussets and toes. The cost of this course is from £95.

And Janet Bolton our favourite patchwork and applique artist will be back at West Dean for a longer course 19 October 2012 - 22 October 2012. Janet's workshops book up so quickly so decide now! The course costs from £ 273. Click here to see all the textile courses and make bookings.