Category: Conferences & Events

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Conferences & Events

‘Making it in Textiles’ Bradford Conference

16-17/10/2024

I was super fortunate to be given the opportunity to attend the Making it in Textiles conference in Bradford. I joined four other students at UAL to learn all about the weaving industry and network with students from other universities.

I was nervous to attend, speaking to all of the Industry and Livery representatives was really daunting.

However, once I arrived and was caught up in the moment and wasn’t overthinking. I chatted to loads of students and representatives, it was absolutely incredible. I feel incredibly privileged to have been able to attend. I feel as though I shall enter third year with a much wider breadth of knowledge.

I spoke to experts such as:

  • Philippa Brock
  • Andrew Hogley
  • James Gaselee
  • James Bagley
  • Lucy Knights
  • Elliot Barlow
  • Professor Sheila-Mary Carruthers

On the second day I visited Marton Mills, based just outside of Bradford. It was amazing to view the large scale process of making the fabric. The design stage was a lot quicker than at university which I hadn’t expected. I had never considered the possibility of working in a mill, however, after this visit I definitely want to get some experience during my DPS year at a mill. I believe this shall help clarify if working within a mill is something I could want.


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Conferences & Events Dobby & Rose

The MALTINGS: Festival of Craft

12/10/2024

Rebecca was attending The Festival of Crafts at Farnham this weekend, she offered me the opportunity to join her and weave on a Louet Jane Table Loom while speaking to customers.

I immediately said yes! I had never attended an event like this so was eager to see how it was in the eyes of a craftsperson.

I loved speaking to everyone, there were lots of amazing stories. It was fun watching everyone trying to work out how I was weaving also. Once I had explained what I was doing everyone seemed to appreciate the products being sold a lot more. I realised how little people know about how cloth/ fabric is made.

I also witnessed how deflating an event like this could be. So many craftspeople were saying what a let down it was. It was invaluable seeing this side of the industry. It’s not always a positive experience. I would find it hard to pick myself up after a less successful event. This made me reflect on if this side of making is something I would want to do.

I think I crave stability and consistency. So maybe working in a business with others would suit me better?

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Conferences & Events Dobby & Rose Uncategorised

Graduate Week

12-16/08/2024

During August I was lucky enough to attend the Graduate Week led by Rebecca from Dobby & Rose.

I met 3 graduate weavers that were mostly local. We all rubbed along really well, sharing our experiences from university etc.

We all set up a loom and completed patterns that Rebecca had planned for future products. I felt a lot slower than the others, however, I had to keep reminding myself they had a year on me!
They were always offering to help me and give tips which was helpful.

From this experience Rebecca asked if I would like to join her for the whole year for 2 days a week. Although the role isn’t paid, I am learning so much weaving knowledge, so am extremely happy with this placement.