At the FTA are currently in Week 3 of the “Threads of Elegance: Conserving the Legacy of Beale & Inman Tailors” project. This two-year community initiative features a six-week tailoring and garment construction course specifically designed for students with Special Educational Needs (SEN).
Throughout the six weeks, Fashion-Enter Ltd / FTA (Islington campus) will provide students with practical experience using industrial sewing machines. They will learn essential skills, including how to thread the machines, insert bobbins, and adjust tension. Students will practice various sewing techniques using both flatbed and overlock industrial machines. By the end of Week 6, each student will upcycle a garment or accessory from unwanted clothing, textiles, or deadstock, which will then be displayed at the London College of Fashion (LCF).
In today’s session (3rd October), the SEN students began their design process. Some students worked on upcycling garments, producing interesting pieces, while others drafted new patterns. A few students practised draping on the stand using various fabrics and offcuts. The environment was both busy and creative, with teachers providing full support to the learners and assisting them with their projects.
FEL’s Head of Education, Lan Leeder, commented, “Everyone in the room is very talented! The atmosphere is buzzing with energy as they work hard on their designs. It’s lovely to see their ideas starting to come together!”