Botanical French beading – a daffodil stem with Holly Parr

Ref: D1D40177

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About this course

Learn how to create a beautiful daffodil using the traditional and adaptable craft of French beading. This19th-century art form combines stringing glass seed beads; wire wrapping and twisting; and sculpting to create exquisite forever flowers to treasure.

Course Description

Gain an insight into the lost art of French beading. Learning a combination of techniques you will create your own forever flower; techniques which you could use in the future to create your own stems and designs.

This course is suitable for all levels and is the perfect opportunity to escape reality and get lost in this therapeutic process.

Working with tiny glass seed beads and wire you will be amazed by how ethereal your finished bloom appears. Despite being a solid, sculptural creation these glass beaded flowers appear soft and delicate, transforming under differing lighting states. Patterns will be provided to assist alongside demonstrations and plenty of one-to-one support as you are guided through the creation of your daffodil stem.

By the end of the course you will have completed your single stem that will last the test of time.

Course Materials

Included

On this course the tutor will supply all of the materials including 2mm glass seed beads, fine craft wire, stub wire and floral tape.

What students need to bring

The materials for this course include tiny 2mm glass seed beads. If you wear glasses for close distance activities please bring them along.

Additional information

Please wear comfortable clothing for the workshop or studio. This is not a messy craft.

Timetable

Student registration: 10.30am - 11am
Course teaching: 11am – 5.15pm 
Morning session: 11am - 1pm
Lunch break: 1pm - 2pm (lunch is not included)
Afternoon session: 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

Holly Parr

Holly graduated from the Central School of Ballet with a BA in Professional Dance and Theatre Studies. Following graduation, she embarked on a colourful career in the theatrical costume industry. During this time Holly stumbled upon French beading, a 19th Century craft that immortalises botanicals, and became completely captivated by the art.  

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Further study options for art craft and design short courses

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.