Louise offers City and Guilds Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications in Millinery. 

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Level 2 is the perfect place to start in your millinery journey, Even with limited skills and knowledge, you will be able to commence your studies at Level 2. this course lasts approximately 8 months and is split into two units.

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Unit 1 –  An introduction into the skills and knowledge required to proceed in any type of craft. By the end of this unit candidates will be able to

• use primary colours to produce secondary colours, add black and white to produce tints, tones and shades

• explore the qualities of line and mark-making

• demonstrate the relationship between shape and form

• create a range of surface textures using simple techniques.

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Unit 2 – A specific unit for Millinery. You will be taught skills in the practice of millinery and in the knowledge of materials, techniques and processes applicable to this level of work

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During the course you will:

• measure the head correctly

• block, press and stiffen a variety of materials in the correct sequence

• recognise the characteristics of a range of millinery materials and fabrics

• use tools and equipment carefully and safely

• make up head fitting wires, brim wires and head ribbons correctly

• select hat styles to compliment a variety of face shapes (including the wearing of spectacles)

• cut and adapt patterns for hats

• interline hats, as appropriate

• make up a variety of hats using a range of materials

• finish hats correctly

• understand Health and Safety requirements of specific chemicals and equipment used

• understand the correct methods of storing hats

• reduce and enlarge hats as required

• sample the techniques and processes listed below:

  • blocking felt – pinning, pressing, drying, stiffening, use of canvas to extend crown after blocking brim

  • blocking straw – soaking, blocking, the use of blocking net as an extension, blocking brim before crown, extending crown

  • head fitting ribbon – f fitting and attaching correctly

  • wire – joining, brim wires, head fitting wires

  • finishing  edges 

  • trimming – bow, drape, bow loop in fabric bow, drape, bow loop, folded, cockade in Petersham flowers including a rose veiling and draping.

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Level 2 courses commence throughout the year and are run at a pace to suit 

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Level 3 is a the natural progression from level 2 and lasts approximately 12 months, this course is also split into two units

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Unit 1 –provides the means to develop a design reference for craft, through a series of outcomes demonstrated by a body of practical work. By the end of this unit you will be able to

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• research and select sources of inspiration and develop design ideas

• research and use contextual studies – contemporary, historical and cultural

• use a range of materials, mediums and techniques

• use a range of styles and sizes of presentation methods

• produce and present exploratory and finished design projects

• operate tools and equipment safely and effectively

• appreciate the application of general design development studies to the craft.

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Unit 2 is Millinery specific You will gain skills in the practice of Millinery and a thorough knowledge of materials, techniques and processes applicable to this level of work.  By the end of the unit you will be able to;

• apply innovative and complex design ideas to planning and making

• plan, prepare and manage the making of complex Millinery items to a design brief

• operate tools and equipment carefully, safely and effectively for complex techniques applicable to Millinery

• make complex Millinery items to a high standard of craftsmanship, to a design brief

• appreciate the contextual influences relating to Millinery at this level

• use effective presentation skills to display completed items

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The courses are held via a mixture of video meetings and in person at my Workshop in Malvern Wells. Classes take place mainly during the week but limited weekend classes may be arranged to suit.

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More information can be found in the links below and please do get in touch with any questions:

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