Textile Research Lab

Our objective is to disseminate knowledge to guide choices with a mindful consideration of the environment and labour workers and an awareness of impact. In the United States alone, around 12.8 million tons of textiles end up in landfills annually. The majority of globally-produced garments are crafted from polyethylene terephthalate (PET), with profound socio-ecological consequences at such a scale of production and consumption. Developing sustainable materials literacy is crucial to equip our students as industry leaders capable of addressing imminent challenges.

The Textile Research Lab enhances and broadens the ongoing efforts of the Center for Sustainable Design Strategies and the Material Lab. It specifically supports students and faculty in the fashion department and textile minor, expanding pedagogical approaches and creating new curricular pathways throughout the institute. The lab facilitates scholarly and creative exchanges with the community and industry partners, both locally and globally.

A collaborative approach is imperative to unite fabric materials innovation, currently isolated in the for-profit sector, with student experimentation, faculty research, and practical application. This synergy aims to discover innovative solutions for current and future challenges.