Fashioning a Career Based on Sewing

Vancouver, BC., Sept 5, 2009 – Sewing is currently undergoing a major resurgence in popularity. While many new enthusiasts take up sewing to save money and extend the life of their wardrobes, few realize that they are developing a skill that is essential to BC’s growing fashion industry.

Now those looking to channel their sewing talents into a career can turn to VCAD’s Fashion Design program. For fashion designers, the ability to sew is an essential building block of the trade and sewing skills come in handy in any design or production position, especially in garment construction.

"You have to be able to construct a garment and fully understand how it goes together." says Jenny Sandberg, designer and founder of Vancouver-based clothing line Hawks Ave. "Strong sewing skills will give you that confidence, even when you’re working with people who have more experience than you."

Students can gain experience in garment and apparel construction in the Fashion Design program at VCAD. They will learn about pattern drafting, textiles, fashion illustration, product development and collection design. They also study various aspects of the fashion industry, including fashion history, marketing and promotion, forecasting, styling and visual display and merchandising.

"From sewing samples to pattern drafting and draping, it all goes together," adds Sandberg. "If you see yourself only designing in the future, at least you have the expertise to tell the seamstress or the factory how to assemble your designs."

VCAD is currently accepting applications for its Fashion Design and Marketing and Merchandising for Fashion programs. The next round of programs start on October 5, 2009. For more information, visit http://vancouver.vcad.ca.

About Vancouver College of Art and Design

Vancouver College of Art and Design (VCAD) is a centre for creativity, where instructors share the commitment, desire and passion for art and design. Diploma programs have quarterly start dates to maximize flexibility for our students. VCAD is also a passionate supporter of the arts within the community, offering bursaries and awards to local organizations each year.

For more information:
Warren Mailey
Manager of Communications
604.915.7288 ext. 2130

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