FAQ - The Diploma in Contemporary Hand Embroidery
Are the Diploma sessions recorded?
We encourage you to attend all the online Diploma classes to get the best experience and tutor support. However, all of our online classes are recorded and the videos are then sent out to all students at the end of each class. The recordings can then be downloaded so you can re-watch them at your leisure between classes and after the course has ended.
How long are the recordings of the sessions available for?
Each session will be recorded and sent out to the students after the session. You will have a week to download this on your own computer and then it is yours forever. This is a great resource to refer back to if you would like to watch the demos again or need a refresher on what happened in the session.
What is the difference between a Standard Diploma and a Complete Diploma?
Our Standard Diploma is 3 units of our course giving you a basic understanding of each of the facets of the embroidery industry. Our Complete Diploma gives you a full overview of the embroidery industry and will enable you to create a complete portfolio of work.
Will there be a chance to visit H&L during the diploma?
We will be holding open studios throughout the year, where you will have the chance to bring your embroidery into the studio to ask us for advice. However this is not mandatory, so if you are abroad do not panic! This is also a nice opportunity to meet some of your fellow classmates in person!
Can we buy one module at a time?
You can buy as many modules as you would like at a time. Each unit has a limit of two years to complete after the initial 10 week teaching period is up. There is no time limit on how long it takes to complete the diploma as a whole. This means you can take the units at your own pace and make the experience as enjoyable as possible!
If you book multiple units at once, do all the dates have to be within the year?
All of the dates on the website are currently the only dates available for the Diploma, so if you would like to book multiple units, these are the only times the classes will be running in 2025.
If I am an existing Diploma student will I get booking priority when new dates are released?
Yes, as an existing Diploma student you will be added to a priority list for future releases to ensure you are given first access to new Diploma course dates.
How many students are in each module?
There will be 20 students in each module, this the perfect amount for there to be enough time to have one on one conversations with the tutor during the three hour sessions.
Is there a size limit on the final piece?
We encourage as much creativity as possible so we haven’t put a size limit on your final submission. However, you have two years to complete your piece so make sure to consider this when choosing the scale of your piece. This is also something we will discuss in more detail during the designing process.
Do we need to post our embroidered pieces to H&L?
All of the submissions for the Diploma Units will be digital. We request high res images of your final pieces rather than sending the physical piece to our Studio. This prevents any work getting lost or damaged and is more accessible for the international students. We will explain further on how to do this during the course. We have made lots of resources to make this as easy as possible for you all.
How do the online sessions work?
All of our online Diploma courses are delivered via zoom. To support the zoom sessions we also use WhatsApp to share photos of work and detailed images. We will send out an easy to follow guide with your booking confirmation for both platforms, simply click the link and follow the instructions to install the software before the class, both links are also provided below. Please send us your WhatsApp number to be added to the group prior to sessions starting to be involved in the class group chat.
How can I pay for the Diploma?
All bookings need to be made through our website, but spaces are limited so if the unit you are looking for is 'sold out' please register your interest for the next release. We offer payment in instalments through Klarna at checkout, learn more about Klarna here. Our school courses and diploma units are not eligible for student finance funding.
Can I earn or spend Rewards Points on the Diploma?
The Diploma is not eligible to earn or spend points as part of our Hand & Lock Rewards Programme. You can read more about our Rewards Programme here to see what is included.
Will this add to my UCAS points?
The diploma and any other school courses do not contribute to UCAS points. Through the diploma you will be gaining valuable embroidery experience which will add to your CV or any applications.
Do I need to buy materials for the Diploma?
A kit with the necessary materials will be sent to you. You will also receive a comprehensive list of suppliers for any materials you would like to purchase additionally. This is not mandatory but it is encouraged as you will be able to explore individual design creativity.
Students will also receive 10% off the Hand & Lock shop online and in person for the duration of their course. This code will be sent in your booking in email so please download this document. Discount does not include any classes, bespoke work, gift cards or anything relating to The Prize.
What if the Module I wanted to enrol on is sold out?
If the Module you wanted to book on is sold it then we suggest you sign up to our waiting list and you will be notified by email of any updates. You can Register your interest here.
If you have any questions about the Diploma that we have not answered here or on our Diploma Page, please contact us here and someone will get back to you as soon as possible.