Mon to Fri, 9:00am - 5:20pm

Learning the foundations and capabilities of computer aided pattern drafting (CAD) software Optitex, those in this course will learn how to digitally create and alter patterns. Digitizing patterns, and existing garments will be touched on, in addition to digitally drafting apparel components. An introduction to working with other software such as Gerber and Adobe Illustrator for pattern drafting and alterations will also be touched on.

Mon to Fri, 9:00am - 5:20pm

Students will explore the fashion design process.   They will create themes and storyboards, draw simple fashion figures, drape fabrics for garment ideas, and practice drawing using industry standard software such as Adobe Illustrator.  No previous experience in drawing is necessary.

Thursday: 9:00am - 3:00pm

Explore the basics of 3D Printing in this intensive workshop designed for students, industry professionals, and community members. Guided by industry experts, participants will learn how to prepare files, set up the 3D printer, and see demonstrations using a variety of materials. Participants will have the opportunity to test their own materials and create custom 3D designs for a hands-on learning experience. Participants are also welcome to bring a 3D file that’s ready to print. A basic familiarity with Rhino is recommended. Software used in this course includes Rhino.

Monday: 9:00am - 3:50pm

Explore the basics of laser cutting in this intensive workshop designed for students, industry professionals, and community members. Guided by industry experts, participants will learn how to prepare files, set up the laser cutter, and see demonstrations using a variety of materials. Participants will have the opportunity to test their own materials and create custom designs for a hands-on learning experience. Participants are also welcome to bring a file that’s ready to cut. A basic familiarity with Adobe Illustrator is recommended. Software used in this course includes Adobe Illustrator.

Mon to Fri, 9:00am - 5:20pm

Working through the construction of knit apparel items, this course will focus on working with specialty industrial knit machinery. Through practical application and understanding of machinery capabilities, projects will include constructing apparel items such as a pair of leggings, an athletic t-shirt, a sports bra, and a swimsuit.

Mon to Fri, 9:00am - 5:20pm

Learn new easy-to-teach techniques to manipulate commercial patterns. Sew prototypes on industrial sewing machines and experiment with fit for different body types during group fittings. Participants will learn great new drafting and construction techniques that they can use to create lesson plans. This course also includes an excursion to visit industry fabric/notion retail location.

Supply list will be sent to registered students prior to class.

Mon to Fri, 9:00am - 5:20pm

Explore the prototyping process through pattern design and sample making.  This course will discuss the differences between a block and a pattern, cover concepts such as dart manipulation, and work through measuring the body for pattern development.  Participants will draft a basic block with custom measurements, discuss fit through fitting a mockup of the block, and work through pattern manipulation to create a personal design.

*Note, to get the most out of this course you should have basic sewing skills and have worked with sewing patterns previously.  
Final work for the course may not be a completely finished garment.

Thursday 6:00pm - 8:50pm

This course offers hands-on experience with industrial machinery commonly used in technical apparel production, including seam sealers, ultrasonic welders, laser cutters, and heat presses. You'll learn to operate these machines while creating apparel items, such as a technical outerwear jacket shell and pants. Additionally, the course explores their potential applications for non-apparel items like bags.

Mon to Thurs, 9:00am - 2:50pm

Through this course learn how to use a range of industrial sewing machines including straight stitch, sergers, and other specialty machines we have on campus. While learning how to use the machines effectively, an understanding of the basics of threading, thickness of textiles, tension, and troubleshooting will be developed. Activities to support learning about machine capabilities will include sewing samples and small projects that will be discussed in class. This workshop is designed for those interested in working on industrial machines who have little to no experience. 

Tuesday 6:00pm - 8:50pm

Working through the construction of apparel items the course content will focus on working with woven fabric. Projects will include apparel items such as constructing a collared shirt, and pair of pants with techniques touching on setting in sleeves, sewing on a collar, waistband, pocket types, and button and zipper closures.