Kantha embroidery from Bengal with Lynn Setterington

Ref: D1D36663

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About this course

An introduction to kantha stitching of Bengal using a range of recycled materials. In the workshop, we will explore colour, pattern making and repurposing cloth using traditional hand embroidery processes.

Course Description

This workshop is an introduction to Bengali kantha quilting and upcycling. It explores traditional techniques and the creative use of found materials. A wide range of old and new samples will be used throughout the workshop to highlight different approaches and outcomes.

By the end of the course, you will have sufficient knowledge to construct a small piece or sample and understand how colour relations and cloth can be adapted and reworked in this slow, mindful approach.

Alongside the artist’s own handling samples, you will see and interrogate traditional kanthas from Bengal, alongside new and old kantha publications, folk art and photographs. The workshop draws on Setterington’s substantive knowledge of kantha work and socially engaged practice and her new publication ‘Connecting Threads’.

Course Materials

Included

On this course the tutor will supply some materials, including cotton fabric and a range of hand embroidery threads such as cotton perle (no 8), soft cottons and several found yarns.

What students need to bring

  • A small selection of hand embroidery threads (but we will share)
  • Half a metre of soft plain cotton fabric- an old pillowcase is ideal (prewashed)
  • Medium wadding – polyester or bamboo
  • Scissors
  • Pins
  • Tacking thread
  • A couple of medium sized needles
  • Not essential, but useful: a water-soluble ink pen
  • Pencil
  • Notebook

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).

Timetable

Daily Timetable

Course teaching: 11am–5.15pm
Students arrive: 10.30am-11am (coffee optional)  
Morning teaching: 11am-1pm
Lunch break: 1pm-2pm (lunch is not included)
Afternoon teaching: 2pm-5.15pm (15 minute break, 3.30pm–3.45pm)
Teaching finishes: 5.15pm  
 

General Information

Short courses are open to anyone aged 18 and over. The course fee covers tuition and materials where stated. You will need to bring all other items listed under the ‘Materials to bring’ section.

Refreshments Coffee and tea are included in the course fee, but you will need to bring lunch with you to eat in the refreshments room. There are also plenty of other local venues to purchase food.

Access If you have any specific access needs, we will need to know about your access requirements in advance. Please tell us about your needs in confidence by emailing: [email protected]

This venue has steps to the front reception, with limited access via a side gate to the ground floor. There is a small lift to higher floors or stairs.

Safety Short course students are required to sign a safety compliance form as part of West Dean Health and Safety regulations.

Refunds and cancellations Please refer to our terms & conditions below

Disclaimer The information given is accurate at the time of publication. However, West Dean College reserves the right to cancel or amend courses if circumstances require.

Terms & Conditions

Tutors

Lynn Setterington

Lynn Setterington is a British textile artist particularly known for her hand-stitched cloths and Kantha quilts celebrating the ordinary and everyday. Lynn's work is held in many collections including the V&A Museum. She trained at Goldsmiths College and is an Associate Fellow of the International Quilt Study Center in Nebraska.

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Further study options

Take the next step in your creative practice, with foundation level to Masters in Fine Art study. 

Depending on your experience, start with an Online Foundation Certificate in Art and Design (one year, part-time), a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design made up of 10 short courses taken over two years (part-time) or advance your learning with our BA (Hons) Art and Contemporary Craft: Materials, Making, and Place (six years part-time). All will help you develop core skills, find direction in your practice and build an impressive portfolio in preparation for artist opportunities or higher-level study. See all degree and diploma courses.