Front Lounge Learners Showcase Collection for Local Businesses
A group of Dundee learners working towards a brand-new qualification have completed a unique collection of garments and accessories for three creative enterprises, including a Dundee band.
The four learners, the first cohort of the National Certificate in Creative Industries (Fashion and Textiles) at SCQF Level 6, have spent the past six weeks designing, mastering industrial sewing techniques and collaborating with Scottish based brands to bring professional commissions to life.
Delivered by Dundee charity Front Lounge, an approved learning centre, the course follows on from the Kindred Clothing (Garment Construction) Award (SCQF Level 5), which all four previously completed.
Learners Rebecca Rawlins, Amy Deans, Samantha Hutchison and Tracy Bayliss produced customised t-shirts, a jumpsuit and an emblem for Dundee musical duo Edenbank; a bag and t-shirt combo for Yolla.Studio; and bags for Orkney designer Kirsteen Stewart in collaboration with Stromness Museum.
One half of Edenbank, Ashley Ross, said, “The brief started with a mood board based on our musical influences, as well as imagery from our EP, Where the Waves Meet the Land. With water, waves and shorelines all feeding into the designs, the girls developed ideas from there and presented them to us.
“It’s been such a cool process and the clothing looks amazing. They’ve been professional and helpful throughout, from design and measuring to fitting, and we’re delighted with the final pieces. The tartan detail is a lovely touch that reflects John and I as Scottish artists. It’s a real honour to be part of this project as a local band, and we’re excited to wear the clothing and hopefully use the design and emblem for future merch.”
Project Leader Chika Inatimi added, “Seeing our learners apply their skills in real-world settings has been incredible and a real confidence boost. They’ve gone from using domestic machines during their Kindred Clothing qualification to producing professional-quality pieces on industrial equipment. To now see their work heading out into communities is just wonderful and shows what learners can achieve with support, encouragement and opportunities to learn in ways that work for them.”
Front Lounge exists to empower people from disadvantaged backgrounds to reach their potential. Its work supports school refusers, young parents, people experiencing mental health challenges, and anyone facing a turning point in life.
With an annual target of 40 hard-to-reach learners, and the potential to engage up to 200 new learners each year, Front Lounge will reintroduce the Kindred Clothing (Garment Construction) Award (SCQF Level 5) in early 2026. Later in the year, five Workplace Core Skills qualifications (Numeracy, Literacy, ICT, Problem Solving and Working with Others), also at SCQF Level 5, will be added to the course portfolio.
Initially offered in small daytime and evening groups from the Hilltown base, the charity plans to extend the model remotely. Working in close partnership with local partners, this approach has already been successfully piloted in Orkney, removing any geographic barriers. Interest is already emerging from community groups and schools across Scotland.
For more information about Front Lounge courses, email learn@frontlounge.org, call 01382 220330, or connect via social media.
ENDS
NOTE TO EDITORS
Formed in early 2023, Dundee-based acoustic folk duo Edenbank – Ashley Ross and John Kennedy – have quickly developed a sound defined by intimacy, honesty and melodic storytelling. They have performed at multiple festivals across 2025 including FyneFest and Eden Festival, and headlined Bonnie Scotland Presents’ first Sunday Showcase at Clark’s, Dundee.
Their debut single, Surface Blue (August 2024), received airplay, including BBC Radio Scotland’s Iain Anderson Show. Their debut EP, Where the Waves Meet the Land, followed in January 2025, with their latest single, Lightning Bolts, released in September 2025. The duo is preparing for a busy 2026, including a gig with songwriter Rhuari Campbell on 9 January (venue TBC) and another Sunday Showcase performance on 22 March at Clark’s, Dundee.