19 Jun Hope-FX Second Cohort June Update: Creative Growth and Skill Building

Over the past four weeks, FEL tutor Manuela has been working closely with tutor Louisa and the second cohort of the Hope-FX programme. Hope-FX gives young people, who are recovering from mental health conditions, the chance to design, create and sell a range of T-shirts / products. The participants receive wrap-around support and tuition from the FEL team over a six month period, and are provided with training in fashion illustration, pattern cutting, sewing skills, traditional and digital printing techniques, and state-of-the-art digital ethical technologies. The course culminates with a photoshoot and a launch party at FEL’s Islington – FC Designer Collective shop.

Reflecting on the experience, Manuela shared:

“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Louisa and the Hope-FX 2 group over the past four weeks, and it’s been a real joy supporting the learners throughout this journey. During this time, I’ve gotten to know each learner’s personality and developed a clearer understanding of how they prefer to work—whether independently or in collaboration with others.

We began with training sessions on industrial sewing machines, including both flatbed and overlocker models. The learners quickly gained confidence and moved on to constructing baby T-shirts. This hands-on task introduced them to the fundamentals of garment construction and gave them valuable insight into the precision and skills required in factory production—skills they may wish to explore further in the future.

In the past three weeks, our focus shifted toward developing their own T-shirt designs, which will soon be launched at our Designer Collective store on Fonthill Road in North London. The group took part in an inspiring illustration masterclass led by designer John Herrera, which helped spark their initial design concepts.

This week, we’re finalising their ideas and preparing for the next stage: digitising their artwork for printing. It’s been truly rewarding to see their personalities reflected in their designs, and to witness both their creative and personal growth through their time with Hope-FX.”

(Examples of practice stitching, illustration, art and baby t-shirt making from one of the Hope-FX participants)

To find out more about Hope-FX tap here.