Introduction to Colour, Material and Finish Design Online Short Course
Course description
Course overview
Design is emotional. The physical features of a design affect us more deeply than we realise. There is not only form and shape to consider but also colour, material and finish. As designers, how can we start applying CMF strategies that will help us create a stronger emotional connection with the products that we create?
In this course, you will understand how to design for our five senses and apply the principles of colour, material and finish at the early stage of your design process to support both the functional and emotional attributes of your designs.
We will look at trend forecasting of colours and materials, creating material stories based on trend and consumer research, and designing colour palettes for specific materials. You will receive personal feedback on all your work.
Who this course is for
This introductory course is ideal for designers or students (textile design, fashion design, product design, or interior design) who want to develop new skills and knowledge of the CMF design process, whether this is to enable them to apply for further study, apply for a CMF position, or work on a specific project where CMF design skills are needed.
Key information
Topics covered
- CMF as a design profession.
- Colour design and theory from a CMF perspective.
- Material design and sourcing.
- Perception and tactile aesthetics.
- Design thinking and brand strategy from a CMF perspective.
- Trend research and forecasting.
- Storytelling in a CMF board.
- Pre-production of colours and materials.
- Each week, a new concept will be presented followed by a practical assignment you will complete during the week to help you put your knowledge into practice.
Learning outcomes
- By the end of the course you will have a better understanding of;
- The CMF design process.
- The difference between trend and fashion.
- The deep influence and importance of colours and materials.
- The behaviour of colour and what affects their perception.
- How to conduct trend, market and visual research from a CMF perspective.
- How to make colour schemes and source materials that are appealing for consumers.
- How to tell a story by developing CMF boards.
- How to develop a concept and talk about colour and materials in a compelling language.
- e narratives into your Infographic designs
- Receive a digital badge and certificate of attendance
Materials
Course Specific Materials:
- Paper and pen to take notes
- Printed material (fashion design magazines, interior design magazines, photography, etc.)
- A3 sketchbook
- Art materials you are confident using (pencils, coloured pencils and markers, paints, etc.)
- Coloured acrylic paint/gouache/inks (optional)
- Scotch tape, masking tape, and double-sided tape
- Mount board
- Scissors or scalpel
- Ruler
- Glue stick or PVA glue
Please see our Guide to taking online short courses.
Tutor
Maria A. Formisano
Maria A. Formisano is an innovative artist, designer, and educator with expertise spanning fashion design, art therapy, and textile design. She holds a Bachelor's in Fashion Design, a Master's in History of Art, and a Master's in Textile Design from the University of the Arts London (UAL).
With a rich and diverse background in creative practice and education, Maria seamlessly blends artistic intuition with technical precision. Her work explores the profound relationships between movement, balance, colour theory, perception psychology, and the human experience. She draws inspiration from renowned theorists and artists such as Goethe, Delaunay, Newton, and Kandinsky.
As a textile designer, Maria specializes in material innovation and sustainable practices. Her design philosophy integrates art, science, and wellness, with a strong focus on eco-consciousness. She carefully selects biodegradable and sustainable materials, blending structural accuracy with a commitment to environmental responsibility.
During her recent studies at UAL, Maria conducted speculative research into textile-based methods to track and explore the effects of electrosmog, particularly non-ionizing radiation (NIR) from mobile phones and artificial sources. This work highlights her dedication to creating socially responsible and forward-thinking design solutions.
Maria’s holistic approach emphasizes the transformative power of art in fostering well-being. She organizes art therapy sessions for adults and children, with a special focus on children with Special Educational Needs (SEN). By incorporating mindfulness-based art therapy, Maria helps children explore diverse materials, stimulate their senses, and regulate emotions in a nurturing environment.
Driven by the belief that creativity fosters confidence, emotional balance, and personal growth, Maria is dedicated to empowering individuals through her practice. Whether through textile designs or mindful art therapy, she aims to inspire self-expression and a deeper connection to personal and social well-being.
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