On 21st September 2026, the Fashion Technology Academy (FTA) Leicester campus hosted the first of four Pink Threads workshops in collaboration with Breast Cancer Now, bringing together 12 female learners from a range of ages and ethnic backgrounds for an afternoon combining health awareness, creativity and practical fashion skills. The workshop was designed to raise awareness of breast cancer screening and encourage open conversations around health and wellbeing, while using garment-making as a creative way to bring people together. And what better garment to make than a bra?
The session began by exploring breast cancer screening and the importance of being aware of changes in our bodies and understanding the screening programme. For many participants, the information was new, creating an opportunity for open and meaningful discussion. The classroom session was delivered by FTA Leicester Operational Manager, Divya, who had completed Breast Cancer Now’s Train the Trainer programme, enabling her to deliver breast cancer screening awareness training. Divya said: “I’m truly grateful to Breast Cancer Now’s Train the Trainer programme for providing me with the opportunity to deliver Breast Cancer Screening Awareness training and contribute to such an important cause.” The training provided a safe space for participants to ask questions, share experiences and consider how important health information can be passed on to families and communities.
Then came the practical part. With needles, thread, fabric and patterns at the ready, participants were introduced to the technical process of bra construction, learning how garments can be created to accommodate individual measurements and sizing. As FTA Leicester Technical Manager, Jo Bean explained: “The practical session demonstrated the technical aspects of bra construction, including how to create a bra tailored to an individual’s own measurements and size.” It was a perfect example of how fashion education can be about much more than making clothes. Behind every garment is a combination of technical knowledge, problem-solving, precision and creativity and in this case, a very important message.
The activity also demonstrated how fashion and textile skills can open up conversations around subjects that might otherwise be difficult to discuss. Sitting around a table making something together can be surprisingly powerful, particularly when everyone has a common purpose. For some participants, the practical activity also provided a welcome opportunity to slow down, concentrate and connect with others. One participant commented: “I have really enjoyed the bra making workshop. I met lots of new people. I found it very therapeutic. These workshops are very good for mental wellbeing.” Another participant highlighted the welcoming atmosphere created by the teaching team: “All the instructors are very knowledgeable and approachable. Great course. Thank you.”
The workshop demonstrated the valuable relationship between technical textile education and wellbeing. For Jo, bringing the two elements together was particularly important: “The workshop beautifully brought together health awareness, technical textile skills and practical learning, highlighting how fashion and garment-making can contribute to wellbeing and confidence.”
The technical side of the session also gave participants the opportunity to understand how a bra is constructed and how patterns and measurements can be adapted to an individual’s body. It was hands-on learning with a very practical outcome but also an opportunity to build confidence, develop new skills and meet people from different backgrounds. The success of the workshop was also down to the enthusiasm and commitment of the Leicester team. Divya added: “A big shout-out to our Leicester team for their enthusiasm, commitment and teamwork in delivering this programme successfully. It was wonderful to see everyone coming together to learn, share and raise awareness.”
Participants were encouraged to take the message of breast cancer awareness back into their own families and communities, helping to spread information about screening and the importance of early awareness.
The 21st September session was the first of four Pink Threads workshops taking place at FTA Leicester, with three further opportunities available for anyone interested in taking part. The workshops offer participants the chance to learn new textile skills, meet others, explore bra construction and, most importantly, become more informed about breast cancer screening and awareness.
Tap here to find out more and book your place on the next free workshop.