Origami and Paper Techniques for Fashion Design Short Course
Course description
Course overview
This course introduces students to the creative potential of paper in fashion design, exploring techniques such as origami, quilling, and 3D paper modelling to craft wearable art.
Through hands-on sessions and group discussions, you'll learn how to manipulate paper to create prototypes for garments, accessories, or unique design pieces, all with a focus on sustainability.
Led by experienced instructors, the course combines historical insights with contemporary applications of paper-based design, fostering both technical skills and conceptual thinking. Students experiment with eco-friendly materials, explore innovative design approaches, and develop their own personal projects.
Students finish the course with a mini portfolio showcasing their prototypes and newly acquired techniques, offering fresh perspectives on materials, sustainability, and creative expression.
Who this course is for
This course is suitable for anyone interested in sustainable design approaches, from beginners, creatives and fashion design students, to professionals, designers and fine artists. No previous experience is required, but a basic understanding of design concepts would be helpful.
Key information
Topics covered
- Introduction to paper techniques and creative exploration
- Advanced techniques: origami, quilling and structural modelling
- Conceptual development and prototyping
- Sustainable experimentation
- Final design refinement and presentation
Learning outcomes
- Learn and experiment with paper techniques such as origami, quilling and weaving
- Create sustainable designs and incorporate recycled and eco-friendly materials into fashion prototypes
- Develop and produce mini prototypes for wearable pieces including accessories or garments
- Document creative progress; start a sketchbook or portfolio to capture ideas, experiments and reflections on the process
- Digital badge and certificate of attendance.
Materials
- Notebook and pen
- Markers or any preferred drawing tools
- Recycled materials (e.g. newspapers, old magazines)
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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