Lore Archive - Student Research Sessions

We are opening up the Archive one day a week from the Start of May through to July. Students can book 1-4 hour slots throughout the day
About this Event

Student Research Sessions in Lore Archive

Mondays & Thursdays, selected dates from May | 12pm–4pm | £20 per hour

You can book one hour or multiple consecutive hours, depending on your needs.

A weekly small group session for students working across fashion, textiles, costume, art, illustration or related disciplines.

These sessions offer direct access to Lore Archive: a 2,000-piece garment and material collection built over the last decade as a working research resource used by designers, students and researchers.

Student Research Sessions provide flexible access to the archive for observational drawing, project development and material study, with time to work directly from garments and objects in the collection.

During your session, you can:

– Draw directly from selected garments and objects

– Study silhouette, proportion and construction

– Observe fabric behaviour, wear, repair and surface detail

– Explore historical references for current projects

– Access a curated research library of over 200 books and printed materials

– Develop ideas directly into your sketchbook

– Ask questions about garments, materials or context

Optional Scanning Add-On:

Garment Scans

£20 per garment

(up to four detail scans per garment)

Reference Book Scans

5 scans for £10

Participants receive printed A3 scans to take away on the day, with high-resolution digital files shared afterwards.

Booking

• 1 hour – £20

• Book multiple hours for extended access

• Thursdays, 12pm–4pm

• Small-group setting

• Limited places each hour

Please note:

The group is capped at 8 participants per session to maintain a focused and comfortable working environment.

Photography is not permitted in the archive.

Sessions are intended as focused working time rather than a taught class, with informal guidance available throughout.

These research sessions are intended for current students. A valid student ID may be requested on arrival.