Textile Design: Knit and Weave BA (Hons)

Do you like the idea of creating your own fabric, completely from scratch? If you’re a methodical thinker with an interest in materials, fibres and yarns, you can learn to transform them into your own unique creations. You will focus on construction in all its forms; knotting, linking, crossing, weaving and tufting. You will learn to use your drawing skills creatively to plan and problems-solve, and to support ideas that often develop directly through sampling.From hand-construction approaches to using industry-standard digital weave and knit equipment, you will have the freedom to experiment and innovate. Our Knit and Weave students secure placements with design studios, mills, manufacturers and retailers – companies who need expertise in knowing about the properties of materials, how they function and react. Our Knit and Weave graduates are employed in both technical and creative roles; as Knitwear Designers, Weave Designers, Designer Makers, Technical Managers and Trend Forecasters.We value diversity, nurture curiosity and place sustainability at the heart of decision making. Embracing digital technology and traditional craft skills our students develop their creativity, personal talents and professional awareness in a stimulating, supportive environment. All students are introduced to print, weave, embroidery and knit processes in the first semester, enabling you to experiment with different methods to identify strengths and interests. In second year, we teach in career-focused groups, reflecting the nature of contemporary employment needs within the industry. This provides you with further opportunity to tailor your learning experience and fulfil your own personal and professional aspirations. It also provides scope for cross-disciplinary working which has become increasingly prominent in Textile Design. The following career-focused pathways that you choose from in your second year reflect the breadth of professional paths that our graduates go on to pursue:- Styling and Trend Forecasting- Contemporary Culture and Craft- Surface Pattern and Technologies- Bespoke Fashion Textiles- Retail and PromotionYou will be taught by passionate and experienced tutors and supported by highly skilled technicians; many of whom have their own practice in Textile Design. Guest speakers, visiting tutors and alumni enrich the learning experience and provide additional industry insights. Employability is at the heart of our course and collaborative work, live projects, competitions and work placements help you to develop professional experience. Students have undertaken work experience in the UK and abroad at companies such as Mary Katrantzou, John Lewis, Trend Bible and Zara. Our strong links with industries including trend agencies, design studios, museums and galleries, provide opportunities that equip students with the skills for increasingly diverse career paths.Our Parkside Building is a dynamic and creative open environment that encourages cross-school collaboration. Our students thrive on the creative buzz and inspiring surroundings in the heart of Birmingham, and enjoy access to traditional and state-of-the-art facilities. They are also able to gain an international perspective through trips to cities such as Paris and Florence.Final year students get the opportunity to exhibit and promote their final major projects at our Inspired Festival, the end of year degree show at Birmingham City University and at the New Designers exhibition in London. The diverse and innovative work on show exemplifies the unique identity of the course. Our aim is that you will graduate as a confident, industry-ready, independent and highly employable textile artist with a clear career ambition.