Sustainable Fashion: Upcycling and Repair

Short course

Let your creative skills flourish with this short course on sustainable fashion. Here you will learn useful skills on upcycling and recycling garments through unique talks and practical workshops.

Dates for this course to be confirmed.

Join the circular fashion movement

Enhance your approach to sustainable fashion practices using pre-existing materials.

This course suits both creatives and general fashion consumers looking to gain valuable experience in sustainable design.

Spread over three days, participants will explore ethical and environmental choices in their own work and the wider world, while discussing the fashion industry’s direction regarding climate and respectful working practices.

A practical introduction to upcycling and extending the lifecycle of garments forms a key part of the three days.

Participants will examine the choices and responsibilities of designers at each stage of the process whilst learning to approach design development through draping and drawing.

Meet your tutors

The course is taught by Emily Tan and Lydia Bolton.

Emily Tan, founder of circular fashion label 1800 Gallons, is a womenswear graduate of the University of Westminster. She has worked for brands like Céline, Marc Jacobs, and Rejina Pyo. Her label uses a cyclical approach and repurposes deadstock textiles to create garments designed for long-term wear, challenging fashion industry norms. Emily also tutors on the Fashion & Costume pathway of KSA's Foundation Studies in Art & Design.

Lydia Bolton launched her namesake brand in 2019. She transforms second-hand textiles from thrift stores, charity shops, and flea markets into bespoke designs. Items such as tablecloths, blankets, and clothing are upcycled by hand. With zero waste at the core of her ethos, Lydia aims to prevent textiles from going to landfill and drive change in the fashion industry.

Course information

What to bring

A basic list of supplies will be sent to you a week in advance of the course start date. All other materials required are provided by Kingston School of Art (KSA).

Terms and conditions

View the terms and conditions for booking a short course.

Booking information

Dates: TBC
Time: TBC
Fee: TBC (as an educational institution, fees for short courses are VAT-free)
Location: Knights Park campus, Kingston upon Thames

To ensure everyone’s safety, we follow all government health and safety guidelines.

For full terms and conditions, view our short course booking policy.