Embarking on a new Textiles course!

So having finished my BA Hons Creative Enterprise course recently, I've been at a bit of a loose end about what to do next. I've been out of work for over a year now to focus on my studies which were a long hard struggle, and I've finally found myself at the end of all that, taking a deep breath and wondering where to go.

I've always been inspired by entrepreneurs, in particular designers who make their own fashion brands and have their own businesses. They get to utilise their own ideas and have their own creative freedom while being their own boss and really controlling your own lifestyle. Everything about this appeals to me entirely, but having done courses on visual merchandising / branding / range planning etc, I've never learned how to actually make garments myself.

SO, a couple of weeks ago I spotted an advert on Facebook for a free fashion and textiles course at City of Sunderland College. After reading the description HERE I decided I 100% need to get myself enrolled on this right now! I called them up and got enrolled immediately, and started last Monday, the 10th July :)

My tutor's name is Rory Fletcher. Rory is agency staff and came into the Bede campus of Sunderland College to take the class. She has her own business and has provided me with so much valuable advice and information during my time working with her.

I've spent the week working towards making a skirt, which has been fitted on me and so I should be able to wear it! I can't wait for this! I learned how to set up the sewing machine, I practised different seams and stitches, then with Rory's tuition I made the toile for my skirt, which turned out fantastic.
I then went to Dainty Supplies, a craft supply store in Washington, and picked up my choice of fabric and a zip for my final piece.

Unfortunately, due to my anxiety being through the roof last week, I missed a day and am having to do more work a couple of days this week. BUT Rory is so generously giving me her time, to make sure I finish and get my Level 1 qualification. Surprisingly I have taken to the process of making pretty well, and I fully plan on continuing to Level 2 on a night class in the future!

Once my skirt is complete I'll post again and hopefully be able to wear the skirt for some pictures if it fits, fingers crossed.

Skirt (Front)

Skirt (Back)