Have you admired those brightly coloured, decorative rosettes and ribbons, often incorporating beads, worn in a hat or fascinator, on a brooch or as part of a livery? Know as cockades, these circular pieces are usually pinned to the side of a hat or on a lapel, or even used to adorn shoes. In 18th and 19th century Europe, coloured cockades were used to show the wearer’s allegiance to a political faction, to indicate rank or as part of a servant’s livery. Some military uniforms also incorporated cockades. Today these hand made pieces of textile art are more decorative than functional.

On this weekend course you will create your very own beautiful cockades. Made out of grosgrain or petersham ribbon or other narrow fabric, this nearly forgotten art form is a delightful way to produce distinctive adornments. Your tutor, Kleshna Handel, has developed a range of designs for cockades that you can make with your ribbon. This course is ideal for both beginners and more experienced crafters.