Fan Making Workshop with Sophia Mace
| Location: Hampton Court Palace | |
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Technique: Fan Making |
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Duration: 10am-4pm |
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This class is open for Priority Booking by RSN Friends only. General booking for this class opens on Saturday 3 October. If you are an RSN Friend, please sign in to book. |
Course Description
Discover the timeless art of paper fan making in this hands-on workshop, where traditional craftsmanship meets personal creativity. Suitable for complete beginners as well as those with a love of paper crafts, this course offers a gentle introduction to the techniques used to create beautiful, functional folding fans.
Guided step by step you will learn how to plan and develop your design, transfer artwork onto a fan leaf, and use colour, pattern and decorative techniques to create a unique piece. You will then discover the traditional methods of pleating, bringing together artistry and precision to create a fully functioning keepsake. After pleating you will learn how to attach your fan leaf onto the sticks, then you will have your completed fan!
Whether your inspiration comes from nature, historic patterns or contemporary design, you will be encouraged to develop your own creative style and leave with a fan that reflects your personality.
Perfect for craft enthusiasts, artists, designers or anyone seeking a creative and mindful experience, this workshop celebrates the enduring beauty of handmade objects and the satisfaction of learning a traditional skill.
What you will need to bring
We recommend bringing a notebook and pen if you would like to make notes throughout the course, as well as any additional drawing or design materials you might like to work with.
You are also welcome to bring some inspiration for your fan leaf design. You can come along and be guided on the day, but you may want to start thinking about your design in advance. This could be something as simple as an abstract splatter or a more detailed design such as a landscape or meadow of flowers – the choice is completely up to you.
And if you have a favourite mug, feel free to bring it along for your refreshment breaks!
Tutor Biography
Sophia Mace
Sophia first started making fans in 2024 for her Textiles Degree Show at the University of Loughborough. Having discovered that fan making was an endangered craft Sophia wanted to revive and celebrate the beauty and intricacy of fan making. Since graduating with a First Class (Hons), Sophia has continued making fans and also teaches the craft. Sophia has taught fan making with the Worshipful Company of Fan Makers, in association with The King’s Foundation at Highgrove. One of Sophia’s fans was presented to the Lady Mayoress of London at a small ceremony organised by the Worshipful Company of Fan Makers. Sophia has also been made an Honorary Freeman of the Livery Company. Sophia’s goal is to reimagine the fan as a contemporary object for interior spaces as well as its traditional use; celebrating exceptional craftsmanship, honouring its rich heritage, and using beautiful, high-quality materials to create pieces that reveal hidden beauty.
Important Venue Information
Please note this is an in-person class at Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU.
Access to Hampton Court Palace is security controlled. Please review this important joining information about Hampton Court courses before attending your course.
Fan Making Workshop with Sophia Mace
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