This course began on 2 February – for more handbag design courses, please see our weekend and Summer school programmes.

Katherine Pogson’s original and famous How to make a handbag course gives you the chance to explore the process of creating a handbag to your own design, from conceiving the original idea, through to making up the finished article.

Starting with design, you will look at sketches and ideas in flat form, and discover ways of developing volume and shape. You will go on to create a resolved pattern and work through the stages to make up the finished article, picking up some professional tips along the way. This course consists of seven three-hour sessions:

• Create a working pattern: exploring volume and shape.
• Develop your design: choosing colours, materials, fittings and styles.
• Prepare: learn to mark up, cut out, reinforce and make linings.
• Add detail: pockets, zips and tabs.
• Stitch by hand, domestic or industrial machine.
• Work with leather: edges, skiving, cylinder arm machines.
• Finishing techniques: attaching straps, handles and metal fittings.

Materials to the value of £40.00, and a full information pack on suppliers and technical tips are included in the price of this course.

You will be able to choose your own materials and fittings and receive a comprehensive information pack including information on suppliers, tools, equipment and other resources, together with key technical tips for successful making. 

Bring along some ideas, inspirations and sketches to help you get started. Beginners are encouraged to work in fabric; leather is possible for those with some existing sewing experience.

TO BOOK ONE OF ONLY TEN PLACES ON THIS COURSE, PLEASE USE THE FORM BELOW.

(If you only wish to make a general enquiry, please use the Contact Form on the Home page instead).