Hamburg Textile Week

How can textiles generate energy, be produced more sustainably, or bridge the gap between people and technology? The exhibition ‘Fabrics with a Future’ at the Design Zentrum Hamburg brings together forward-looking projects from the field of textile design – ranging from fashion to technology, research and art. On display are bio-based and recyclable materials, e-textiles, technological developments and artistic approaches.

What materials do we need for a healthy and climate-positive future? Architect and materials ecologist Leila D. Behjat, co-founder of the Healthy Materials Lab EU, presents innovative approaches to low-pollutant, circular and regenerative construction. The workshop invites participants to rethink materials and explore together how architecture and design can contribute to healthier spaces for people and the environment.

Can a material made from agricultural waste transform the leather industry? LOVR™ is the world’s first 100 per cent plant-based and circular leather alternative made from hemp residues. This innovative material is biodegradable, recyclable and is already being used in the fashion, furniture and mobility sectors. revoltech demonstrates how so-called waste can be turned into high-quality materials and what opportunities genuine material cycles offer for a sustainable future. How hemp residues are turned into a scalable, circular leather alternative. Morgan-Lee Wagner, from the Darmstadt-based materials tech start-up revoltech, will provide insights into the material, production and market development in her talk.

Dr.-Ing. Henning Löcken carries out research and development into the durability of textiles at the Institute of Textile Technology (ITA) at RWTH Aachen University. His lecture focuses on the technical design of durable textiles and on the question of how durability can be reliably measured and assessed.

How can shoes be designed so that, at the end of their useful life, they return to natural cycles? In the ‘Walking on wool’ project, Philipp Remus, a product and industrial designer, challenges the material logic of conventional shoes and uses wool as a structuring material for a modular tabi-style shoe. The focus is on new approaches to material use, production and lifespan.

How can textiles generate energy, be produced more sustainably, or bridge the gap between people and technology? The exhibition ‘Fabrics with a Future’ at the Design Zentrum Hamburg brings together forward-looking projects from the field of textile design – ranging from fashion to technology, research and art. On display are bio-based and recyclable materials, e-textiles, technological developments and artistic approaches.

How can textiles generate energy, be produced more sustainably, or bridge the gap between people and technology? The exhibition “Fabrics with a Future” at the Design Zentrum Hamburg brings together forward-looking projects from the field of textile design – ranging from fashion to technology, research and art. On display are bio-based and recyclable materials, e-textiles, technological developments and artistic works.

How do materials, technique and intuition come together to create a textile pattern? In this workshop, participants will delve into the design process of textile sample-making and learn how technical knowledge and aesthetic decisions interact during the design process. Through hands-on experimentation with materials, participants will experience the role our sensory perception plays in the development of textile surfaces, structures and qualities. Feel free to bring your own pieces of fabric!

Why are products often replaced rather than repaired? In this workshop with Annika Jasmer from the HTW Berlin’s ‘KMU-ReparaturTex’ research project, designers and product developers will work together to develop ideas for a training and further education platform that embeds repairability right from the product development stage. Using creative methods drawn from design thinking, approaches are developed that promote circular design processes and place greater emphasis on durable products.

How can textiles generate energy, be produced more sustainably, or bridge the gap between people and technology? The exhibition ‘Fabrics with a Future’ at the Design Zentrum Hamburg brings together forward-looking projects from the field of textile design – ranging from fashion to technology, research and art. On display are bio-based and recyclable materials, e-textiles, technological developments and artistic approaches.

Technological progress is changing the way we design. We must not allow ourselves to be misled by quick, AI-generated answers. Instead, we need to use digital tools constructively and as a support, without distrusting our own creative intuition. This is because many of the crucial moments in the design process occur implicitly and are fuelled by our experience and attitude. This individuality is what defines our own creative signature – how can we preserve it? Christine Krüger, fashion and textile designer and professor at the AMD, explores this question in her lecture, drawing on her own projects and many years’ experience with generative design systems in textile design.

If technology is as much a part of everyday life as textiles, what does that mean for design? Textiles have long been interwoven with technology, although this is often not tangible. What happens if, in the design process of wearables and material interaction, we focus on the relationships inherent in the materiality of textiles, rather than solely on making technology wearable? Barbro Scholz, co-founder of Stühmer|Scholz Designbüro and a PhD candidate in the PhDArts programme (Leiden University & KABK in The Hague), hashas been exploring for many years how the interface between tangible (textile) and intangible materials (light, VR) can be investigated and designed. Together with performers, she has brought this knowledge to life and presents it through mixed media.

Wie entstehen die Ideen, Materialien und Entwürfe von morgen? Bei der Werkstattführung durch die Akademie Mode & Design (AMD) Hamburg erhalten Besucher*innen Einblicke in die Arbeitsräume, Werkstätten und kreativen Prozesse der Hochschule. Die Führung bietet die Gelegenheit, Studierende, Projekte und innovative Ansätze aus den Bereichen Mode, Design und Gestaltung kennenzulernen und einen Blick hinter die Kulissen der Designausbildung zu werfen.

What impact does our clothing have on people and the environment? The Greenpeace exhibition highlights the environmental and social impacts of global textile production and invites visitors to take a fresh look at their own wardrobes. At the same time, it highlights specific ways in which people can take action and explains how a more conscious approach to clothing can contribute to greater sustainability and fairness. No booking required.

How can synthetic materials deliver high performance whilst conserving resources? In this workshop, Josef Hearle, Innovation Manager at a premium fashion brand, will provide insights into NovaPoly™, a platform for next-generation synthetic materials. Together, we will explore how bio-based and recycled raw materials, circularity and biodegradability can help reduce textile waste and pave new ways for more responsible material development, without compromising on quality, functionality and scalability.

Wie können Textilien Energie erzeugen, nachhaltiger produziert werden oder Mensch und Technologie miteinander verbinden? Die Ausstellung "Stoffe mit Zukunft" im Design Zentrum Hamburg versammelt zukunftsweisende Projekte aus dem Textildesign – von Mode über Technologie und Forschung bis zur Kunst. Zu sehen sind biobasierte und kreislauffähige Materialien, E-Textiles, technologische Entwicklungen und künstlerische Positionen.

What does local and social textile production look like today? At the ‘Aperitivo Walk-in’, Made in Veddel is opening the doors to its studio and inviting visitors to get to know the spaces, the people and the work processes. This social enterprise produces textiles in Hamburg, working primarily with women who have experienced displacement and migration. Over an aperitif and snacks, there’ll be a chance to strike up a conversation and learn more about the link between craftsmanship, social inclusion and local production.

How can textiles be turned into power stations for the energy transition? SkySails Group GmbH develops traction kite systems that generate electricity from high-altitude wind, placing the highest demands on materials and design. Drawing on current projects, Merlin Bungart, a graduate engineer in Aeronautics & Aerospace, explains in his presentation how tear-resistant and UV-resistant fabrics, realistic test procedures and the simulation of thousands of flight cycles enable the development of high-performance kites. At the same time, the focus is on the question of how technical textiles can be designed for long-term use and subsequently returned to material cycles.

What happens to products at the end of their life cycle, and how can we design them to be recyclable right from the start? Using the Skysails flying kite as an example, Hartmut Schoon, CEO of Enneatech AG, highlights the challenges and potential of ‘Design for Recycling’. In doing so, he demonstrates how the choice of materials, construction and product development determine whether end-of-life products can be transformed into valuable raw materials. Drawing on the experience of Enneatech AG, which processes polyamide yarns from the carpet and textile industries into high-quality compounds for the construction, mechanical engineering and automotive sectors, it becomes clear what role circular design plays in ensuring effective material cycles.

What does local and social textile production look like in Hamburg? At the ‘Breakfast Walk-in’, Made in Veddel opens the doors to its studio and invites visitors to get to know the people, the spaces and the production processes. The social enterprise produces textiles in collaboration with women who have experienced displacement and migration, creating new opportunities for participation and skills development. Over coffee and light snacks, there’ll be a chance to chat and gain an insight into the connection between craftsmanship, community and local production.

How does a digital idea become a high-quality textile print? In the first part of the workshop, Brother will cover the basics of modern direct-to-garment printing and provide insights into materials, printing technologies and the professional preparation of print files. Alongside practical introductions to DTG printing and colour management, participants will experience live demonstrations of the new GTX300 and learn about innovative workflow solutions. The workshop will also highlight how water-based inks and digital production processes can contribute to a more sustainable textile industry.The second part focuses on achieving perfect print results. The emphasis is on pre-treatment, print quality and innovative processes such as Direct-to-Embroidery (DTE) and Direct-to-Film (DTF). In the open workshop that follows, participants can immediately put what they have learnt into practice, create their own designs and follow the entire production process from design to the finished print. This not only provides practical know-how but also creates a space for discussion, questions and new ideas regarding the future of textile printing. 

How can textiles generate energy, be produced more sustainably, or bridge the gap between people and technology? The exhibition ‘Fabrics with a Future’ at the Design Zentrum Hamburg brings together forward-looking projects from the field of textile design – ranging from fashion to technology, research and art. On display are bio-based and recyclable materials, e-textiles, technological developments and artistic approaches.

The exhibition showcases the latest developments in the Swedish fashion and textile industry as it moves towards a circular economy, which is intended to help make the sector climate-neutral by 2045. Many Swedish labels are increasingly turning to recycled fabrics, organic cotton, initiatives such as upcycling projects and specialised innovation centres, which are deeply rooted in Scandinavian design culture. The exhibition showcases eight areas that explore the theme of fashion from different perspectives. Alongside the ‘must-haves’ of sustainability, the exhibition explores production, technology, digitalisation, manufacturing processes, raw materials and related topics. This is what the future of the Swedish fashion industry could look like: utility-focused, technology-driven and climate- and environmentally-friendly. Examples of collections and films are also on display. The exhibition was produced by the Swedish Institute.

How does a digital idea become a high-quality textile print? In the first part of the workshop, Brother will cover the basics of modern direct-to-garment printing and provide insights into materials, printing technologies and the professional preparation of print files. Alongside practical introductions to DTG printing and colour management, participants will experience live demonstrations of the new GTX300 and learn about innovative workflow solutions. The workshop will also highlight how water-based inks and digital production processes can contribute to a more sustainable textile industry. The second part focuses on achieving perfect print results. The emphasis is on pre-treatment, print quality and innovative processes such as Direct-to-Embroidery (DTE) and Direct-to-Film (DTF). In the open workshop that follows, participants can then put what they have learnt into practice straight away, create their own designs and follow the entire production process from design to the finished print. This not only provides practical know-how but also creates a space for discussion, questions and new ideas about the future of textile printing.

Fabrics with a Future How can textiles generate energy, be produced more sustainably, or bridge the gap between people and technology? The exhibition ‘Fabrics with a Future’ at the Design Zentrum Hamburg brings together forward-looking projects from the field of textile design – ranging from fashion to technology, research and art. On display are bio-based and recyclable materials, e-textiles, technological developments and artistic approaches.

The fast-fashion industry has far-reaching negative impacts on the environment, the climate and people. With its clothes swap party, Greenpeace is setting an example for a more conscious and sustainable approach to clothing. Do you have clothes in your wardrobe that you no longer wear, but which could still bring joy to someone else? Then bring along up to five items of clothing in good condition (please no underwear, socks or fur) and, in return, discover some new favourites to take home with you. Good to know: the Greenpeace exhibition is also open for you to visit during this time.

How can textiles generate energy, be produced more sustainably, or bridge the gap between people and technology? The exhibition “Fabrics with a Future” at the Design Zentrum Hamburg brings together forward-looking projects from the field of textile design – ranging from fashion to technology, research and art. On display are bio-based and recyclable materials, e-textiles, technological developments and artistic works.

How are colours created from algae, charcoal and other natural raw materials? In this workshop led by artist, material designer and researcher Alicia Valdés Selbach, participants will learn how to produce biodegradable printing inks and apply them to textiles using screen printing. This offers a hands-on insight into the world of circular material development. Together, the group will explore how natural resources and organic waste materials can be transformed into sustainable alternatives for fashion and textile design. At the end, all participants will take home their own, individually designed T-shirt.

What roles do we take on, and which are attributed to us? The group exhibition “Invisible Roles”, organised by the Hamburg-based fashion and culture platform APN Gallery, explores the visible and invisible roles that BIPoC, FLINTA* and queer people in particular assume within a predominantly normative society. As a collective forum, the exhibition brings together visual art, performance, fashion and text to highlight marginalised perspectives and open up new spaces for dialogue.

How can textiles generate energy, be produced more sustainably, or bridge the gap between people and technology? The exhibition ‘Fabrics with a Future’ at the Design Zentrum Hamburg brings together forward-looking projects from the field of textile design – ranging from fashion to technology, research and art. On display are bio-based and recyclable materials, e-textiles, technological developments and artistic approaches.

What roles do we take on, and which are attributed to us? The group exhibition “Invisible Roles”, organised by the Hamburg-based fashion and culture platform APN Gallery, explores the visible and invisible roles that BIPoC, FLINTA* and queer people in particular assume within a predominantly normative society. As a collective forum, the exhibition brings together visual art, performance, fashion and text to highlight marginalised perspectives and open up new spaces for dialogue.

How does a discarded item of clothing become a new favourite? In the Fab City T-shirt printing workshop, participants transform old clothes into unique, sustainable statements. Participants can draw their own designs by hand, create them digitally or develop them with on-site support. Using cutting plotters and vinyl films, they produce creative textile prints that demonstrate how repair, personalisation and upcycling can open up new perspectives on our clothing.

How can textiles generate energy, be produced more sustainably, or bridge the gap between people and technology? The exhibition ‘Fabrics with a Future’ at the Design Zentrum Hamburg brings together forward-looking projects from the field of textile design – ranging from fashion to technology, research and art. On display are bio-based and recyclable materials, e-textiles, technological developments and artistic approaches.

What does the future of knitting look like? At her Hamburg-based Microfactory, Mone Unmüßig combines industrial knitting technology with design, material development and digital manufacturing. As part of the Open House, visitors will gain an insight into production processes, prototyping and the potential of local on-demand production. This will demonstrate how new textile infrastructures are emerging and what opportunities industrial knitting processes open up for designers and the textile industry of tomorrow. In a relaxed atmosphere, there will also be space for discussion, questions and new ideas about the future of textile design.