Designed for students in all FSAD options. Explores the relationship between materials and design with a concentration on the use of innovative textile materials in apparel. Both aesthetic and functional issues are addressed. The course consists of a combination of lectures, discussion of readings, oral reports, a research paper, and project work. The class engages elders from the local community to solve real-life problems using design thinking methodologies.

Outcome 1
Understand technical specifications for fibrous materials.

Outcome 2
Select appropriate materials for specific performance requirements.

Outcome 3
Perform calculations regarding fiber and fabric properties and predict the properties of these materials under specific conditions.

Outcome 4
Learn to present project information graphically in a poster format as well as orally.

Outcome 5
Perform reverse engineering studies on fibrous materials and propose technical and design solutions to performance issues.