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Fabric Lab
In the Fabric Lab you will acquire material and process knowledge around texture, pattern, colour and construction – interlacing your skill-set through an understanding of textile and fabric properties.
<p>In the Fabric Lab you will acquire material and process knowledge around texture, pattern, colour and construction – interlacing your skill-set through an understanding of textile and fabric properties.</p>
<p><strong>Dye and Print – </strong>Our Fabric Lab contains over 30 linear metres of print tables, large and small-scale heat presses, and a dedicated dye lab for colouring fabrics, including natural dye processes. This space also offers students the opportunity to screen print with specialist textile pastes and mediums. Alongside traditional methods, outcomes can also be supported digitally.</p>
<p><strong>Cut and Sew – </strong>An industry standard, professional sewing studio layout accommodates a variety of production methods including pattern-cutting, millinery and upholstery. A selection of specialist machines includes digital and domestic knit, tufting, and embroidery machines.<br /></p>
<p><strong>Design Software – </strong>You’ll have access to pattern design and cutting CAD system Assyst alongside AVA industry standard specialist design and colour software for design practices. You’ll also have access to <a href="https://www.wgsn.com/fashion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WGSN</a>, the trend forecasting site used by professional buyers, designers, and creatives.</p>
<p><strong>Imprint Lab – </strong>In the Imprint Lab you will gain expertise across a range of 2D printmaking and mark making techniques using various mediums.</p>
<p><strong>Printmaking – </strong>Offering a broad range of printmaking techniques, including etching, collagraph, lino, letterpress, monoprint, engraving, intaglio, lithograph up to A0, and bookbinding, you’ll have access to multiple presses, including a large Rochart Aquatint press, a Hunter Penrose printing machine, an A2 Columbian press and two large Star presses.</p>
<p><strong>Digital Printing – </strong>The Digital Print Bureau (DPB) offers affordable and quick print services, including wide-format or solvent printing, photo printing, vinyl cutting and finishing. Our six printers include a Mimaki fabric printer, and can process a range of media, such as acetate, wallpaper, PVC banners, silk and cotton. Additional services include sublimation printing for digital transfers, a Dry Lab photo printer, Risograph, xerox facilities, and a digital plotter to cut vinyl stickers. A suite of professional print finishing equipment allows you to scan, bind and laminate.</p>
