Learn how to make latex clothes with a short course
- Written byCarys Thomas
- Published date 23 February 2024
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Latex - this bold and versatile material continues to make a statement in the fashion world.
From Kim Kardashian at the Met Gala to Sam Smith at the Brits, latex looks have marked some of the most talked-about pop culture moments.
Made from tree sap, latex is also a more sustainable option for designers looking for an environmentally friendly alternative to leather or PVC.
But how are latex clothes made? And what kind of skills and techniques are involved in the process? This is what students on our Introduction to Making Latex Clothes Short Course uncover.
To find out more, we caught up with short course student and product developer, Lea Neuhaus. Lea tells us about her interest in latex clothes and discusses her current creative projects.
Lea Neuhaus had an interest in sewing and textiles from a young age. “I started sewing when I was a little kid and have been fascinated by the craftsmanship and possibilities ever since,” she tells us.
Lea, who lives in Germany, went on to pursue a career in textiles and is currently studying for a master’s degree in textile products (clothing) at Hochschule Niederrhein (University of Applied Sciences).
Outside of her studies, Lea works as a junior product developer for a fair fashion label and works on various costume projects. She is currently working on a textiles project with a friend which involves sewing and pattern making.
“My friend is designing the prints and I am making patterns and sewing the garments,” she says. “We have also mixed some latex pieces into the designs as I still want to improve my skills.”
“At the moment I’m trying to mix latex with fabrics and self-made bobbin lace,” says Lea. “Making bobbin lace takes me a long time as the process is pretty slow, but I'm looking forward to the results.”
Experimenting with latex
Lea first began experimenting with latex in her creative projects during lockdown.
“I taught myself a little bit about latex work by watching YouTube videos and reading blogs from the early 2000s but it was hard because there is a lack of information on the internet about the subject,” she explains.
Hoping to expand her knowledge and skills, Lea booked a place on our Introduction to Making Latex Clothes Short Course at Central Saint Martins.
During the course, students learn many new skills and have the opportunity to utilise them in creating their own latex garments.
The first part of this 5-day course introduces students to the techniques involved in the making of a simple latex garment. Later in the week, students bring a fabric garment that they wish to re-create in a heavier grade of latex, such as a pair of jeans or trousers, jacket, coat or hoodie.
With guidance from designer and tutor Nick Jones, students learn and practice basic techniques such as bonding seams, hems edging and trims, and inserting zips and appliques.
Nick is a well-known designer and manufacturer with 17 years of experience in the industry. He runs his own rubber clothing label specialising in modern menswear.
New opportunities
Designed to offer an intensive and enjoyable learning experience, our Introduction to Making Latex Clothes Short Course is a great opportunity to build your skills over the course of a week.
“This was one of the best experiences of my life so far,” says Lea. “To be completely focused on just one topic for one week straight gives you so many opportunities.”
“I got the feeling that after just one day the knowledge I had up to that point had evolved so much,” Lea tells us. “My skills got 100% better.”
“Taking all the knowledge I’ve gained from the course into my master’s study gives me the possibility to focus more on latex clothes,” she says.
Making connections
Lea particularly enjoyed the opportunity to meet and work with a new network of creative people with similar interests.
“Probably one of the greatest aspects of the course was the people in my group because they came from all over the world and we all had different backgrounds,” she says.
“Not everyone came from the fashion industry, but everything was still doable for each one of us,” says Lea. “Nick is such a phenomenal teacher and he supported us all so that we achieved the best possible outcomes.”
“Getting to know all these different people with the same interest and still having contact with some of them is a huge benefit that I really appreciate.”
Would you like to learn new skills with a fashion making short course?
We offer courses for all levels of experience, from beginner to intermediate. Start your creative journey today!
Check out our upcoming short courses to see what's coming up.
