Certificate in Curtains and Soft Furnishings Design - Online Course

When you think about curtain design you would usually think about the materials you would use. In this course, you are introduced to the dynamics of soft furnishings and how their design can play a pivotal role in the design of a room.

If you work in interior design or wish to establish a career in this industry, the Certificate in Curtains and Soft Furnishings course can provide you with skills to remain competitive in the industry provide a higher level of service to your clients and ultimately expand your business.

At the end of this course, not only will you feel confident in your soft furnishing designs but be able to convey this to your clients.

The course is self-paced to suit your lifestyle.

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Course Outline
Course Code: 
TDE001
Duration: 
300 hours - Access for 12 months
Delivery: 
Online
Certificate: 
Certificate
Lesson Structure: 
  1. Designing Window Treatments - When we think about looking for a window treatment, most people naturally think of curtains first, but this is just the beginning and there are many options available. Successful curtain design is about getting the balance right between the details of the window treatment itself, and how they interact with other decorative elements of the room. You will be taught the fundamentals of curtain construction and how the various components can be mixed and matched to design stunning window treatments suitable for any style or budget.
  2. Soft Furnishings & Accessories - Fabric can be used as a great “cover-up” to transform rooms instantly and easily, and carefully placed soft-furnishings and accessories can help to pull a scheme together and achieve continuity. Fabric can be used in so many different ways, that it provides the designer with unlimited scope, flexibility and something to suit every budget, but using fabric in the most obvious ways can result in a look that is calculated and contrived. Creating an individual and elegant interior requires sensitivity and careful consideration. This can be developed by simply “training your eye” and becoming familiar with all of the options available.
  3. Professional Presentation - The design industry is built on the premise that designers will help clients to get it right first time. Successful designers respond to this challenge by using a series of simple tools, to present their ideas in a way that is clear, persuasive and above all professional.  By the time you have mastered the new knowledge and skills taught throughout this course, you will undoubtedly develop your ability to design fabulous window treatments and soft-furnishings to transform any interior. This course will show you how to use words and images successfully so that you can present your ideas to clients in a way that is professional and persuasive.
  4. Measuring, Estimating & Fitting - Estimating the costs of curtains & soft-furnishings can be a double edged sword; first the amount of fabric required must be accurately calculated, and then these totals must be added to labour costs to produce the total price. Allowances must be made so that patterns can be properly matched and sufficient fabric must also be allowed for hems and pattern “drifting”. Understanding how various details impact the total cost can help you to prepare estimates accurately and juggle the different components to get maximum impact for your money. We will provide you with a set of templates, to guide you through the process of preparing accurate estimates with a proven formula that will ensure your success
Aims - the learning objectives of the course: 
  • Curtain Headings, Edges & Bodies – how you can vary a single element to create individual & elegant designs.
  • Readymade Curtains – the essential differences and when and how to use them successfully.
  • Fabric Flair – combining fabrics creatively to create individuality and give a fresh new look to existing curtains.
  • Pelmets & Valances – the difference between the two and a look at the options available.
  • Swags & Tails – the key to success with elaborate draperies and how & when it’s appropriate to cheat!
  • Blinds, Shades & Sheers – look at how to use them alone or combine them with curtains.
  • Finishing Touches & Details – using accessories to create perfect finishing touches & novel designs.
  • Choosing Fabrics – practical considerations and pitfalls to avoid
  • Bedding & Upholstery – how to design a bedroom that you won’t want to leave.
  • Kitchens, Dining Rooms & Lounges – the details that can tie a room together without overkill.
  • Alternative Details & Accessories – a close look at how a thoughtful approach can accomplish style and elegance.
  • Visualisation – how to envision the end result and make the right colour & fabric choices
  • Mood & Concept Boards – adapting traditional designer’s tools to communicate visually with your clients
  • Client Presentations – how to create presentations that sell your design ideas and concepts
  • Client Briefs – giving substance to your suggestions and selling your ability and your professionalism!
  • Calculating Fabric Requirements – our step-by-step template can be used to estimate accurately and without fuss
  • Curtain Tracks & Poles – choosing and positioning them correctly
  • Preparing Estimates – a professional template that you can adapt for your own use
  • Hanging & Dressing - Off Curtains – the important steps to a professional finish