COURSE OVERVIEW
Duration: 2 Years Full-Time
Entry Requirements: 4 GCSEs (9-4/A*-C)
(if you have maths/english at grade D/3 you would be required to work towards grade C/4 for these qualifications alongside your course)
UCAS points: up to 168 (depending on grade outcome)
Campus: Middlesbrough
Pattern, print, texture and textiles - discover the creative process behind the surfaces that shape our world. Ideal for makers and designers with an eye for detail and style.
Why Choose This Course?
• Work with diverse textile processes: print, stitch and surface embellishment
• Explore both handcrafted and digital textile techniques
• Respond to live briefs and produce original, professional outcomes
• Build a portfolio tailored to fashion, interiors or applied design
• Learn from practising designers and artists with industry insight
Further Education study programmes are designed to meet the guided learner hours as per their funding bodies.
This diploma is validated by the UAL Awarding Body, part of University of the Arts London and the UK’s leading provider of creative qualifications at FE level. The Northern School of Art is an approved centre for UAL Awarding Body qualifications. All students are awarded qualifications under their official UAL Awarding Body titles.
COURSE DETAILS
This two-year course is your gateway into the vibrant world of surface design. You’ll explore how textiles, textures and patterns can be used to transform fashion, interiors, accessories, and art — developing both traditional craft skills and contemporary digital techniques.
You will experiment with a wide range of processes, including screen printing, embroidery, repeat pattern design, dyeing, fabric manipulation, embellishment, mixed media and digital textiles. Through creative projects and live briefs, you’ll develop personal responses to themes and build a portfolio of original textile outcomes.
Our experienced tutors and technicians will support you in refining your technical ability, creative confidence, and knowledge of the commercial applications of textile design. You’ll have access to specialist resources including print tables, sewing machines, and digital design tools.
Whether your passion lies in fashion, interiors, illustration, or surface pattern, this course prepares you for university, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles in the creative industries - with a portfolio that shows who you are and where you’re heading.
Where Could It Take You?
• Textile Designer
• Surface Pattern Designer
• Print Designer (fashion or interiors)
• Embroiderer or Fabric Artist
• Colourist or Trend Forecaster
• Interior or Soft Furnishing Designer
• Fashion/Textile Illustrator
• Knitwear or Weave Designer
• Design Studio Assistant
• Craftsperson or Maker
• Design Buyer or Product Developer
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
"I gained an agent through workshops taken at College”
"I gained an agent through workshops taken at College”
Ofsted Outstanding
The Northern School of Art’s Middlesbrough campus has been given another ‘Outstanding’ rating by Ofsted. Following an intensive four-day inspection by six inspectors the School’s further education provision has retained the top rating it has held since 2009.
