Wilson School of Design

Our Continuing Studies Courses are open to community members for general interest and those who might be looking to build their skills, and those looking to gain new skills. If you are considering pursuing post-secondary design programs these courses will help you develop your skills and build your portfolio while also getting to know our labs, and programs that we offer a bit better. Are you a teacher working on your UBC Diploma in Education in Home Economics Education? These continuing professional studies courses may be used toward your credential, see above UBC link for more details! 

See below for our 2026 courses. 

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN 

CourseDate Registration Deadline
Introduction to Laser CuttingMarch 16March 9
Introduction to 3D printing March 26March 19
Apparel Construction for Woven Items April 7 - June 23March 31
Technical Apparel ConstructionApril 9 - June 25April 2
3d

Introduction to 3D Printing

Course Number: FSDP-9046
Course Price: $100 + GST
Upcoming Dates: March 26, In-Person
Course Hours: 9am to 3pm (includes one hour lunch)
Location: Richmond Campus, Wilson Building

Designed for students, emerging designers, industry professionals, and curious community members, this intensive course introduces you to the full workflow of 3D printing. Learn how to prepare and optimize files, operate a 3D printer, and experiment with a range of materials through expert-led demonstrations.

With guided studio time, participants will create custom 3D prints, test their own materials, and gain confidence with industry-relevant digital tools. You are welcome to bring a print-ready 3D file of your own or develop one during the course. Foundational skills in Rhino are helpfulbut not requiredas the course included an instructor-led introduction to essential software techniques.

This is your opportunity to explore digital fabrication in a supportive, high-tech design environment—and walk away with your own printed creations. No advanced experience required—just curiosity and a willingness to learn.

Laser

Introduction to Laser Cutting

Course Number: FSDP-9047
Course Price: $100 + GST
Upcoming Dates: March 16, In-Person
Course Hours: 9am to 3:50pm (includes one hour lunch)
Location: Richmond Campus, Wilson Building

Discover the basics of precision cutting and digital making in this hands-on laser cutting workshop. Designed for students, emerging designers, industry professionals, and curious community members, this intensive studio course introduces you to the full workflow of laser cutting. Learn how to prepare files in Adobe Illustrator, operate the laser cutter, and explore how different materials—such as cardboard, wood, acrylic, and textiles—respond to laser processes.

Participants will gain practical experience creating custom cut or engraved designs and are welcome to bring their own ready-to-cut files. With guided demonstrations and instructor support, learners will also test sample materials, experiment with settings, and troubleshoot for optimal results.

Basic familiarity with Adobe Illustrator is recommendedbut not requiredas the course includes a foundational software refresher to support beginners. Walk away with new skills, a deeper understanding of digital fabrication, and your own laser-cut creations. 

Perfect for beginners—no prior experience required beyond curiosity and a willingness to experiment.

Technical Apparel Program

Technical Apparel Construction Image

Course Number: FSDP-9050
Course Price: $500 + GST
Upcoming Dates: April 9 - June 25, In-Person
Course Hours: 6pm to 8:50pm 
Location: Richmond Campus, Wilson Building

Gain hands-on experience with the specialized machinery used to create today’s technical apparel. In this immersive studio course, learners work directly with industrial equipment—including seam sealers, ultrasonic welders, laser cutters, and heat presses—to explore how technology and construction intersect in modern apparel production.

You’ll practice operating each machine through guided sample-making and technique development before applying your skills to a personal project. Participants may choose to construct technical outerwear pieces, or gear-based accessories such as bags to better understand how these technologies function across multiple product categories.

Personal projects will be selected in consultation with the instructor on the first day of class to ensure they match your goals and experience level.

shirt

Apparel Construction for Woven Items

Course Number: FSDP-9048
Course Price: $500 + GST
Upcoming Dates: April 7 - June 23, In-Person
Course Hours: 6pm to 8:50pm
Location: Richmond Campus, Wilson Building

Build confidence and skill in constructing beautifully crafted woven garments. This hands-on course introduces foundational and intermediate sewing techniques used in professional apparel production. Learners will begin by sampling essential methods—such as seams, zipper applications, waistbands, and pocket types—before progressing into full garment construction.

Projects may include classic woven pieces such as a collared shirt or a pair of tailored pants, with techniques covering setting in sleeves, sewing collars, creating button and zipper closures, and achieving clean, professional finishes.

Each participant will select a personal project, which will be reviewed and finalized with the instructor on the first day of the course to ensure it matches your experience level and goals.

Participants are responsible for providing their own fabric, thread, and notions for their chosen project.

Thank you for your interest! In the meantime, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at cpsdesign@kpu.ca