Thomas Jefferson University maintains a uniquely strong facility dedicated to the education of our students in Textiles. Across the different disciplines of Knit, Weave and Print, students have the availability of using hand equipment, digital equipment and specialized CAD systems.

All our production equipment is maintained by a staff of knowledgeable technical associates who work with students on their individual projects.

Knit Facilities

Students selecting the knit concentration will work a designated knit studio equipped with Passap machines to fully explore the potential of weft knitted fabric design.

Subsequent courses will take the students into the use of CAD systems to design onto electronic flat bed and circular equipment.

Print Facilities

Students within the print concentration work with both hand processes and digital development. The screen printing facility is equipped with a darkroom and color kitchen in addition to the print table and steaming facilities.

Students will design using Photoshop, Illustrator, Lightroom & AVA computer software.

The Center for Excellence in Surface Imaging, allows students and professors to explore and refine design initiatives based on digital printing technologies including both spot and process coloration. The center currently has state-of-the art digital ink jet printing equipment from Mimaki Engineering, Mutoh Industries, Epson, and Roland.

Weave Studios

Students specializing in weave have the opportunity to work with floor looms, electronic dobby looms and full size electronic Jacquard equipment.

Students will work with dedicated software programs including PointCarre, EAT and WeavePro to develop weave designs onto the electronic equipment.

Studio Space

MS Textile Design students design, innovate and create in a collaborative makers studio with a range of analog and digital tools, equipment and workspaces.  

The Design Center

The Design Center’s Textile Collection houses over 200,000 items that reflect a broad spectrum of techniques, designs, cultures, and historic periods. Students may use the collection for special projects, research and design inspiration.

Dyeing & Finishing Lab

Once a fabric has been created it must be dyed or otherwise finished. Our students gain a thorough understanding of these processes through studying of the chemistry and technology involved in their own textile lab. Dyes are studied by their method of application while fabric finishing covers the chemical, thermal and mechanical processes.