EcoThreads Sustainable Smart Textile Workshops

Join Us for the EcoThreads Sustainable E-Textile Workshop in NYC!

We invite you to a one-day, free workshop dedicated to creating sustainable functional fiber for e-textiles.

Workshop Overview: E-textile fabrication merges soft textile materials with hardware prototyping, but many rapidly prototyped projects result in a mix of textile and electronic waste, posing recycling challenges and environmental concerns. EcoThreads, a research project from the Hybrid Body Lab at Cornell University, explores biodegradable functional threads for sustainable smart textiles. By hosting community-engaging workshops, we aim to introduce sustainable design practices to e-textile practitioners, makers, craftspeople, and more.

What You'll Experience:

  • Wet Spinning Techniques: Gain hands-on experience in creating functional fibers.

  • E-Textile Swatching: Fabricate e-textile swatches for various sensing functions.

  • Sustainable Design Practices: Explore biodegradable material choices to ensure your projects are eco-friendly.

  • Artistic Integration: Incorporate your unique artistic style into your e-textile creations.

Workshop Highlights:

  • Experiment with materials and technology in a supportive environment.

  • Learn the complete process, from thread fabrication to swatch creation.

  • Engage in a discussion and reflection session to share your experiences and insights.

Why Attend? EcoThreads provides a pathway for individual creators to adopt sustainable smart textile practices. This workshop not only enhances your technical skills but also fosters a community of environmentally conscious makers.

Important Note: Due to limited space, we will review the information provided during registration to ensure a diverse group of participants. This will help us create a balanced and inclusive workshop experience. We appreciate your understanding and will notify all applicants of their status as soon as possible.

Event Details

 

Date: September 29th (Sunday) 10 am - 6 pm*

Location: 570 Lexington Ave., 12th floor, New York, NY 10022

Cost: Free

Registration for this event is required.

* Flexible lunch break; food will not be provided, so please bring your own or explore nearby options

 

Workshop Activities

  • Learning EcoThreads sustainable prototyping workflow

  • Hands-on EcoThreads thread fabrication, with a focus on wet-spinning

  • E-textile swatch project ideation and brainstorming

  • E-textile swatch fabrication and documentation

  • Group discussion and reflection

Join us to make a positive impact on the environment while advancing your skills in e-textile fabrication. Let's create a more sustainable future together!

If you have any questions, please contact Jingwen Zhu jz497 AT cornell DOT edu

This project is supported by the College of Human Ecology Engaged Research Seed Grant, Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability Academic Venture Fund, and The CCSS QuIRI Small Grants Program.