Level 3 Hand Knit Textiles Modules 7716-16

Module 1: Focusing on Texture, explored in yarn, stitch and artwork. Sampling basic techniques - casting on / off, selvedges, tension samples, blocking and pressing; begin a study on fibres / yarns with wool; outline the tools / equipment used in knitting; Health & Safety.

Module 2: Colour - theory and exercises; using inspiration to devise unusual colour combinations; striped knitting; slip-stitches; hems; yarn study: animal fibres; start collecting information on knitting trends and well known designer-makers.

Module 3: Increasing, decreasing, shaping and sampling a variety of different stitch types that use these techniques; Swiss Darning and embroidery onto knitting; yarn study: silk; selecting inspiration; experimental mark-making; expressive Line; Rhythm and Movement in design; printmaking.

Module 4: Intarsia (picture knitting) and Fair Isle strand / weave techniques; using stitch-related graph paper; yarn study: cotton; explore organic / geometric shape and formal / informal pattern and use these to develop original design work.

Module 5: Sample Aran-type travelling and crossing stitches, understand how these are developed and can be adapted; added-on knitted embellishments; yarn study: linen; use PVA and paper manipulation techniques to explore 3-dimensional Form; look at body shapes and style suitability for designing knitwear.

Module 6: (garment production techniques) Seaming & making-up; blocking: short rows; picking up stitches; necklines; buttons, button bands & fastenings; grafting; taking measurements; drafting basic body blocks; toiles; planning a knitted item; pattern-writing; yarn study: Viscose.

Module 7: (designing for knit) Design Briefs; linking & storyboards; from inspiration to stitch; designing knitted items / garments; working drawings; presentation & illustrating knitwear; identification of sleeve styles; using the Elements and Principles of Design; Space and Mass; Balance; design & make the Item for Interior Use.

Module 8: Modular / patchwork knitting; short row colour blocks; yarn study: man-made / Acrylic; design progression - from inspiration through experimentation to design ideas; the first design assignment - Texture.

Module 9: Sample different methods of creating openwork and lace knitting - ladders, elongated stitches, slits and slots, eyelets, faggoting, knitted lace; cut paper designs; decorative paint effects - spattering, sponging, stencilling; etc.; creating void and removing colour; yarn study: yarn styles.

Module 10: Decorative / rever / shawl collars; photocopying as a design tool; perspective; design & make the assessment sweater and evaluate the process; scale and proportion; Fibonacci; second and third design projects.

Module 11: Drafting a raglan block; pattern-writing for raglans; pockets; reversible stitches; bead knitting; knitting with wire; decorative trims ~ appliqué, fringes & pom-poms; Fashion Accessory assignment; fourth design project.

Module 12: Gores; godets; pleats; knitted skirts; batwing sleeves; sideways knitting; cardigan / jacket assignment; final design project; collate the trends / designers information file; information on knit trade shows and colour / yarn predictions; evaluate the course.