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Designing for Textiles
Lesli Robertson
Lesli Robertson
The Designing for Textiles workshop provides those who work in traditional crafts-based media with an introduction, or refresher, to design education through the lens of Armenian textiles. Based on an in-person training program that took place in 2018 through the My Armenia program, this workshop is a series of lessons and extension activities that build upon one another and encourage you to innovate in your own textiles-based design work.
Read more
The Designing for Textiles workshop provides those who work in traditional crafts-based media with an introduction, or refresher, to design education through the lens of Armenian textiles. Based on an in-person training program that took place in 2018 through the My Armenia program, this workshop is a series of lessons and extension activities that build upon one another and encourage you to innovate in your own textiles-based design work.
Read more
The Designing for Textiles workshop provides those who work in traditional crafts-based media with an introduction, or refresher, to design education through the lens of Armenian textiles. Based on an in-person training program that took place in 2018 through the My Armenia program, this workshop is a series of lessons and extension activities that build upon one another and encourage you to innovate in your own textiles-based design work.
I will introduce the design process, each step to effectively take an idea into a finished product. You will explore the elements and principles of design by identifying how they are used in traditional Armenian textiles. Color theory will be introduced along with an activity that has you testing numerous color relationships.
For more inspiration, I will highlight several artists and organizations who are transforming traditional art forms into new textile-based products. Additional activities will include an overview of construction techniques on the sewing machine as well as an introduction to natural dyes.
Each element of this workshop is designed to provide an introduction to ideas and techniques that you can integrate into your own practice and strengthen your work as a designer.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/ey17kb/designing
What's inside
Learning objectives
- Learn about the design process and the steps to effectively take an idea into a finished product
- Explore the elements and principles of design by identifying how they are used in traditional armenian textiles
- Be introduced to color theory and have the opportunity to test numerous color relationships
- In this course, students will: learn about:
- Learn about the design process and the steps to effectively take an idea into a finished product
- Explore the elements and principles of design by identifying how they are used in traditional armenian textiles
- Be introduced to color theory and have the opportunity to test numerous color relationships
- In this course, students will: learn about:
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Meant for those in craft-based industries, this course teaches the fundamentals of design through the framework of Armenian textiles
Taught by Lesli Robertson, an expert in textiles and design, this course offers a unique perspective on design and traditional Armenian art forms
This learning experience guides students through the design process, from ideation to final product, giving beginners a solid foundation in design thinking
By exploring elements and principles of design in traditional Armenian textiles, students develop an eye for aesthetics and visual balance
Delving into color theory and experimentation, the course enhances students' ability to create harmonious color palettes and visual impact
Through diverse activities such as construction techniques and natural dyes, the course provides hands-on learning experiences that reinforce design concepts
Save this course
Save Designing for Textiles to your list so you can find it easily later:
Save
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Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Designing for Textiles with these
activities:
Design with My Armenia
Show steps
Familiarize yourself with the content of the workshop by following the training program that inspired the course.
Show steps
-
Visit the My Armenia website
-
Explore the Designing for Textiles training program
-
Follow the lessons and complete the extension activities
Gather resources on Armenian textiles
Show steps
Compile a collection of resources on Armenian textiles, including books, articles, websites, and videos to expand your knowledge of this topic.
Show steps
-
Search online for resources on Armenian textiles
-
Visit your local library or museum to find books and other materials on Armenian textiles
-
Attend lectures or workshops on Armenian textiles
Review Basic Sewing Techniques
Show steps
Reinforce your existing knowledge to prepare for more advanced textile-based design work.
Show steps
-
Gather resources on basic sewing techniques (e.g., tutorials, books).
-
Practice hand-sewing stitches on scrap fabric.
-
Set up your sewing machine and practice basic stitches.
-
Sew a simple project to apply your skills.
12 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 15 activities
Find a mentor who is an expert in Armenian textiles
Show steps
Connect with an expert in Armenian textiles to gain personalized guidance, insights, and support for your learning journey.
Show steps
-
Attend industry events and meet professionals in the field
-
Reach out to professors, designers, and artists who specialize in Armenian textiles
-
Ask for introductions from your network
Write a Textile Design Journal
Show steps
Reflect on your design process, document your ideas, and track your progress as you work through the course.
Browse courses on
Creative Process
Show steps
-
Set up a dedicated notebook or digital journal for your textile design ideas.
-
Regularly record your inspirations, sketches, and experiments.
-
Write about your design choices, successes, and challenges.
-
Use your journal as a tool for reflection and growth.
Identify design elements in Armenian textiles
Show steps
Practice identifying the elements and principles of design in Armenian textiles to reinforce your understanding of the foundational concepts of design.
Browse courses on
Elements of Design
Show steps
-
Gather a variety of Armenian textiles
-
Examine the textiles and identify the different design elements, such as line, shape, color, and texture
-
Analyze how the design elements are used to create different effects, such as balance, contrast, and emphasis
Experiment with Natural Dyes
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of color theory and explore sustainable dyeing techniques.
Show steps
-
Research different natural dyes and their sources.
-
Follow tutorials to extract and prepare natural dyes.
-
Experiment with different fabrics and mordants to achieve various color effects.
-
Create a swatch book to document your experiments.
Explore the Color Theory in Armenian Textiles
Show steps
Deepen your understanding of color theory and its application in Armenian textiles by following guided tutorials.
Browse courses on
Color Theory
Show steps
-
Study the color wheel and its components
-
Analyze the use of color in traditional Armenian textiles
-
Experiment with different color combinations and relationships
Follow tutorials on natural dyeing techniques
Show steps
Learn about natural dyeing techniques by following tutorials to expand your knowledge of textile production and gain practical skills.
Show steps
-
Find tutorials on natural dyeing techniques online or in books
-
Gather the necessary materials, such as plants, mordants, and fabrics
-
Follow the instructions in the tutorials to create your own naturally dyed textiles
Participate in a design competition that focuses on Armenian textiles
Show steps
Showcase your design skills and creativity by participating in a competition that challenges you to create innovative textile-based products inspired by Armenian textiles.
Show steps
-
Find a design competition that focuses on Armenian textiles
-
Develop a design concept and create a prototype
-
Submit your entry to the competition
Design and Create a Textile Collage
Show steps
Put your newfound design knowledge into practice by creating a unique and meaningful piece of textile art.
Show steps
-
Gather inspiration from traditional Armenian textiles and modern textile artists.
-
Experiment with different fabrics, textures, and colors to create a cohesive design.
-
Cut and arrange your fabric pieces to create your collage.
-
Sew or bond your fabric pieces together to complete your textile collage.
Contribute to an open-source project related to Armenian textiles
Show steps
Engage with the open-source community and make a meaningful contribution to the preservation and promotion of Armenian textiles through software development, documentation, or other forms of collaboration.
Browse courses on
Open-Source
Show steps
-
Find an open-source project related to Armenian textiles
-
Review the project's documentation and code
-
Identify an area where you can contribute and make a pull request
Design a textile swatch inspired by Armenian motifs
Show steps
Apply your knowledge of Armenian textile elements and principles to create a unique and meaningful textile design of your own.
Show steps
-
Research and select Armenian motifs that inspire you
-
Sketch and refine your design, incorporating the motifs and principles you have learned
-
Create a physical or digital textile swatch of your design
Design a textile-based product inspired by Armenian textiles
Show steps
Create a textile-based product that incorporates elements of Armenian textiles to demonstrate your understanding of the design process and your ability to apply it to a practical project.
Show steps
-
Research Armenian textiles and identify design elements that inspire you
-
Sketch out your design ideas
-
Choose materials and techniques that will best represent your design
-
Create a prototype of your product
-
Present your product to a group of peers for feedback
Start a textile-based business inspired by Armenian textiles
Show steps
Develop a business plan for a textile-based business that incorporates elements of Armenian textiles to apply your design skills and knowledge to a real-world project.
Show steps
-
Research the market for textile products
-
Develop a unique selling proposition for your business
-
Create a business plan
-
Launch your business
Design with My Armenia
Show steps
Familiarize yourself with the content of the workshop by following the training program that inspired the course.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Visit the My Armenia website
- Explore the Designing for Textiles training program
- Follow the lessons and complete the extension activities
Gather resources on Armenian textiles
Show steps
Compile a collection of resources on Armenian textiles, including books, articles, websites, and videos to expand your knowledge of this topic.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search online for resources on Armenian textiles
- Visit your local library or museum to find books and other materials on Armenian textiles
- Attend lectures or workshops on Armenian textiles
Review Basic Sewing Techniques
Show steps
Reinforce your existing knowledge to prepare for more advanced textile-based design work.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather resources on basic sewing techniques (e.g., tutorials, books).
- Practice hand-sewing stitches on scrap fabric.
- Set up your sewing machine and practice basic stitches.
- Sew a simple project to apply your skills.
12 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 15 activities
Find a mentor who is an expert in Armenian textiles
Show steps
Connect with an expert in Armenian textiles to gain personalized guidance, insights, and support for your learning journey.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Attend industry events and meet professionals in the field
- Reach out to professors, designers, and artists who specialize in Armenian textiles
- Ask for introductions from your network
Write a Textile Design Journal
Show steps
Reflect on your design process, document your ideas, and track your progress as you work through the course.
Browse courses on
Creative Process
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Set up a dedicated notebook or digital journal for your textile design ideas.
- Regularly record your inspirations, sketches, and experiments.
- Write about your design choices, successes, and challenges.
- Use your journal as a tool for reflection and growth.
Identify design elements in Armenian textiles
Show steps
Practice identifying the elements and principles of design in Armenian textiles to reinforce your understanding of the foundational concepts of design.
Browse courses on
Elements of Design
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather a variety of Armenian textiles
- Examine the textiles and identify the different design elements, such as line, shape, color, and texture
- Analyze how the design elements are used to create different effects, such as balance, contrast, and emphasis
Experiment with Natural Dyes
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of color theory and explore sustainable dyeing techniques.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research different natural dyes and their sources.
- Follow tutorials to extract and prepare natural dyes.
- Experiment with different fabrics and mordants to achieve various color effects.
- Create a swatch book to document your experiments.
Explore the Color Theory in Armenian Textiles
Show steps
Deepen your understanding of color theory and its application in Armenian textiles by following guided tutorials.
Browse courses on
Color Theory
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Study the color wheel and its components
- Analyze the use of color in traditional Armenian textiles
- Experiment with different color combinations and relationships
Follow tutorials on natural dyeing techniques
Show steps
Learn about natural dyeing techniques by following tutorials to expand your knowledge of textile production and gain practical skills.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find tutorials on natural dyeing techniques online or in books
- Gather the necessary materials, such as plants, mordants, and fabrics
- Follow the instructions in the tutorials to create your own naturally dyed textiles
Participate in a design competition that focuses on Armenian textiles
Show steps
Showcase your design skills and creativity by participating in a competition that challenges you to create innovative textile-based products inspired by Armenian textiles.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a design competition that focuses on Armenian textiles
- Develop a design concept and create a prototype
- Submit your entry to the competition
Design and Create a Textile Collage
Show steps
Put your newfound design knowledge into practice by creating a unique and meaningful piece of textile art.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather inspiration from traditional Armenian textiles and modern textile artists.
- Experiment with different fabrics, textures, and colors to create a cohesive design.
- Cut and arrange your fabric pieces to create your collage.
- Sew or bond your fabric pieces together to complete your textile collage.
Contribute to an open-source project related to Armenian textiles
Show steps
Engage with the open-source community and make a meaningful contribution to the preservation and promotion of Armenian textiles through software development, documentation, or other forms of collaboration.
Browse courses on
Open-Source
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find an open-source project related to Armenian textiles
- Review the project's documentation and code
- Identify an area where you can contribute and make a pull request
Design a textile swatch inspired by Armenian motifs
Show steps
Apply your knowledge of Armenian textile elements and principles to create a unique and meaningful textile design of your own.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and select Armenian motifs that inspire you
- Sketch and refine your design, incorporating the motifs and principles you have learned
- Create a physical or digital textile swatch of your design
Design a textile-based product inspired by Armenian textiles
Show steps
Create a textile-based product that incorporates elements of Armenian textiles to demonstrate your understanding of the design process and your ability to apply it to a practical project.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research Armenian textiles and identify design elements that inspire you
- Sketch out your design ideas
- Choose materials and techniques that will best represent your design
- Create a prototype of your product
- Present your product to a group of peers for feedback
Start a textile-based business inspired by Armenian textiles
Show steps
Develop a business plan for a textile-based business that incorporates elements of Armenian textiles to apply your design skills and knowledge to a real-world project.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research the market for textile products
- Develop a unique selling proposition for your business
- Create a business plan
- Launch your business
Career center
Learners who complete Designing for Textiles will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Fashion Designer
Fashion Designer
Fashion Designers create clothing, accessories, and footwear. As a Fashion Designer, you research trends, create designs, and select fabrics. The Designing for Textiles workshop may be useful to you by teaching you about the design process and the elements and principles of design. This knowledge can help you create more innovative and stylish designs.
Textile Designer
Textile Designer
Textile Designers create designs for fabrics, wallpaper, and other textiles. As a Textile Designer, you research trends, create designs, and select materials. The Designing for Textiles workshop may be useful to you by teaching you about the design process and the elements and principles of design. This knowledge can help you create more innovative and stylish designs.
Product Designer
Product Designer
Product Designers create designs for products such as furniture, appliances, and electronics. As a Product Designer, you research trends, create designs, and select materials. The Designing for Textiles workshop may be useful to you by teaching you about the design process and the elements and principles of design. This knowledge can help you create more innovative and user-friendly products.
Interior designer
Interior designer
Interior Designers plan and design the interiors of buildings. As an Interior Designer, you meet with clients, create design plans, and select furniture and finishes. The Designing for Textiles workshop may be useful to you by teaching you about the elements and principles of design. This knowledge can help you create more stylish and functional interiors.
Illustrator
Illustrator
Illustrators create images for a variety of media, such as books, magazines, and websites. As an Illustrator, you create drawings, paintings, and other images. The Designing for Textiles workshop may be useful to you by teaching you about the elements and principles of design. This knowledge can help you create more visually appealing illustrations.
Graphic designer
Graphic designer
Graphic Designers create visual designs for a variety of media, such as print, web, and video. As a Graphic Designer, you create logos, brochures, and websites. The Designing for Textiles workshop may be useful to you by teaching you about the elements and principles of design. This knowledge can help you create more visually appealing designs.
Photographer
Photographer
Photographers take pictures for a variety of purposes, such as art, journalism, and advertising. As a Photographer, you take pictures of people, places, and things. The Designing for Textiles workshop may be useful to you by teaching you about the elements and principles of design. This knowledge can help you create more visually appealing photographs.
Art Director
Art Director
Art Directors oversee the visual aspects of a variety of projects, such as magazines, websites, and advertising campaigns. As an Art Director, you create and manage the visual style of a project. The Designing for Textiles workshop may be useful to you by teaching you about the elements and principles of design. This knowledge can help you create more visually appealing projects.
Museum curator
Museum curator
Museum Curators oversee the collections of museums and galleries. As a Museum Curator, you research, acquire, and display objects. The Designing for Textiles workshop may be useful to you by teaching you about the history and culture of textiles. This knowledge can help you create more informative and engaging exhibits.
Fashion Historian
Fashion Historian
Fashion Historians study the history of fashion. As a Fashion Historian, you research and write about the history of fashion. The Designing for Textiles workshop may be useful to you by teaching you about the history and culture of textiles. This knowledge can help you write more informed and engaging articles and books about fashion history.
Textile Conservator
Textile Conservator
Textile Conservators preserve and restore textiles. As a Textile Conservator, you assess the condition of textiles and develop and implement conservation treatments. The Designing for Textiles workshop may be useful to you by teaching you about the materials and techniques used in textiles. This knowledge can help you preserve and restore textiles more effectively.
Textile Artist
Textile Artist
Textile Artists create art using textiles. As a Textile Artist, you create sculptures, paintings, and other works of art using textiles. The Designing for Textiles workshop may be useful to you by teaching you about the materials and techniques used in textiles. This knowledge can help you create more innovative and expressive works of art.
Fashion Stylist
Fashion Stylist
Fashion Stylists create outfits for clients for a variety of purposes, such as photo shoots, red carpet events, and personal appearances. As a Fashion Stylist, you select and coordinate clothing, accessories, and footwear. The Designing for Textiles workshop may be useful to you by teaching you about the elements and principles of design. This knowledge can help you create more stylish and visually appealing outfits.
Anthropologist
Anthropologist
Anthropologists study the behavior, culture, and history of humans. As an Anthropologist, you conduct research and write about human societies. The Designing for Textiles workshop may be useful to you by teaching you about the cultural significance of textiles. This knowledge can help you conduct more informed and engaging research about human societies.
Archaeologist
Archaeologist
Archaeologists study the history of human cultures by excavating and analyzing artifacts. As an Archaeologist, you uncover and interpret the remains of past civilizations. The Designing for Textiles workshop may be useful to you by teaching you about the materials and techniques used in textiles. This knowledge can help you identify and interpret textile artifacts more effectively.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/ey17kb/designing
Reading list
We've selected seven books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Designing for Textiles.
Save
Provides a comprehensive guide to fabrics and their uses. It includes information on the history, production, and properties of different fabrics. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about this subject.
Provides a comprehensive cultural history of textiles. It covers a wide range of topics, such as the history of textile production, the use of textiles in different cultures, and the symbolism of textiles. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about this subject.
Save
Comprehensive guide to the textile design process, covering everything from concept development to production.
Practical guide to textile design, covering the principles of design, color theory, and fabric manipulation.
Provides a comprehensive overview of textile techniques used in the Middle East. It includes a variety of projects that can help you to learn more about these techniques.
Save
Explores the use of textiles in interior design, covering the different types of textiles, their properties, and how to use them to create beautiful and functional spaces.
Save
Practical guide to dyeing with natural materials, covering the basics of dyeing and how to use different natural dyes to create beautiful colors.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/ey17kb/designing
Share
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Effort
4 to 5 hours per week for 2 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
The Smithsonian Institution
Instructor
Lesli Robertson
Session
February 23, 2024
- February 28, 2025
Language
English
Transcript
English
Good to know
Meant for those in craft-based industries, this course teaches the fundamentals of design through the framework of Armenian textiles
Taught by Lesli Robertson, an expert in textiles and design, this course offers a unique perspective on design and traditional Armenian art forms
This learning experience guides students through the design process, from ideation to final product, giving beginners a solid foundation in design thinking
By exploring elements and principles of design in traditional Armenian textiles, students develop an eye for aesthetics and visual balance
Delving into color theory and experimentation, the course enhances students' ability to create harmonious color palettes and visual impact
Through diverse activities such as construction techniques and natural dyes, the course provides hands-on learning experiences that reinforce design concepts
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