Textile Design

Textile Design BA is an exciting course bubbling with creativity and energy. You’ll learn technical skills through exploring a variety of subject areas including textile design for interiors and fashion and accessories. Throughout the course you'll have opportunities to produce collections of textiles, surface techniques and garments, all of which will be showcased in a professional setting in your final year.

You’ll have numerous opportunities to enter local and international competitions. We offer opportunities to exhibit your work, as well as the chance to visit industry and trade shows in London, Paris and Florence. Our previous students have undertaken work placements with, and have gone on to work for Julian McDonald, Edward Crutchley, Mark Fast, Toogood, Mary Katranzou, Alexander McQueen, Asos, Timberland, The British Museum, Camira Fabrics, Toynbee Hall and Tissage hand made rugs.

Successful graduate designer makers include Majeda Clarke,Vicky Cowin, and Stephaine Witts, Lisa Bloomer and Claire Whelan. In the most recent Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education (DLHE) survey, 100% of all 2017 graduates from this course were in work or further study within six months. Our expert team includes professional textile artists, practitioners and designers, as well product designers in fashion and interior who lecture and mentor you to support your learning.

While experimenting with digital textile printing and laser cutting, as well as learning traditional techniques, you'll also have opportunities to take part in a number of additional workshops which include dyeing, rug making and CAD skills (Photoshop and illustrator) and to collaborate with London Met students studying jewellery or fashion degrees across a wide range of projects.

After undertaking workshops in print, weave, knit and mixed media you'll go on to pursue specific interests and material specialisation through both studio and contextual study. As you progress, you'll gain an understanding of commercial, ethical and industry standards as you undertake projects and work placements, develop professionalism and establish networks to further your career.

We’re proud to have industry links and live projects with multinational companies such as Adidas, Gainsborough silk Weaving Co, Edward Crutchly, Lyle & Scott, The Print Archivist, furniture retailers Heal’s and Ligne Roset, Thornback Peel and Tissage rugs. You'll have opportunities to visit industry and trade shows both in the UK and overseas to exhibit your work, leading to a work-ready portfolio for your final year show.

The course provides you with regular feedback through tutorials to support you in your creative development and individual voice. You'll also gain current and relevant knowledge of working in the design industry prepare you for your specialism. Upon completion of the degree you could enter textile, fashion or interior design roles including designer-maker, industry designer, buyer, technologist, stylist and design journalist, or progress on to a master’s course.

Assessment

You're assessed via project work and essays, individual and group design practice, and a final major show and dissertation.

Professional accreditation

We work with diverse retailers, manufacturers and design studios for live projects, providing valuable experience of the textile industry.

Entry requirements

In addition to the University's standard entry requirements, you should have:

• A minimum grade of BBC in three A levels in relevant art and design subjects (or a minimum of 112 UCAS points from an equivalent Level 3 qualification, eg BTEC National, OCR Diploma or Advanced Diploma)
• English Language GCSE at grade C/grade 4 or above (or equivalent)
• A portfolio which contains a range of drawings, practical making, sketchbooks and work which provide a window into your creative interests and engagement.
• A portfolio interview

If you do not have traditional qualifications or cannot meet the entry requirements for this undergraduate degree, you may still be able to gain entry by completing the Fashion and Textiles Extended degree or the Art and Design Extended Degree. Applicants who do not meet entry requirements but have a strong portfolio along with work experience will be considered.

All applicants must be able to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. Applicants who require a Tier 4 student visa may need to provide a Secure English Language Test (SELT) such as Academic IELTS. For more information about English qualifications please see our English language requirements. We encourage applications from International/EU students with equivalent qualifications. We also accept mature students with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

After the course

Our graduates have gone on to work at companies including Timberland, Harrods, the Fashion Model Directory and River Island. London Met textile design student Majeda Clarke was shortlisted for a Bemz Design Award and went on to create her latest collection with UNESCO. Other roles include self-employed designer-maker, industrial designer, buyer, technologist and stylist, or you could consider progressing to a master’s in your field.