Leeds Institute of Textiles and Colour

Overview

Leeds Institute of Textiles and Colour (LITAC) is a collaborative, multi-disciplinary research institute addressing global challenges in colour, fashion and textiles through research and innovation, as well as teaching. We are particularly focused on the development of innovative science and technology, materials, methods and processes. Technology-driven sustainable development is a major part of our work.

We are collaborative and international in our outlook and work with business, governments, NGOs and policy makers.

LITAC is built on a heritage of nearly 150 years of teaching and research in colour and textiles on the same site in Leeds, and we are proud to have been supported by The Clothworkers’ Company since our original founding in 1874.

LITAC brings together world-leading research capabilities in design, science and engineering. Our centres include the Future Fashion Factory (FFF), the 3D Weaving Innovation Centre (3DWIC) and the Clothworkers’ Centre for Textile Materials Innovation for Healthcare (CCTMIH).

Discover the Leeds Institute of Textiles and Colour

Research strengths

Cutting-edge research related to colour, fashion and textiles to find solutions to global challenges.
Building on expertise

LITAC works collaboratively, bringing together the University’s academic expertise in areas related to textiles and colour.
Our heritage

Discover more about the historical links between the University and the textiles industry in Leeds.
The Clothworkers' Company

The Clothworkers’ Company and the University of Leeds have a rich history dating back to the foundation of the Yorkshire College of Science in 1874.

News

Discover the latest news from the Leeds Institute of Textiles and Colour.

One year at LITAC

September marked the first anniversary of LITAC. It has been a busy year for our new Institute, so we have taken the time to pause and reflect on our activities so far.
LITAC announces partnership with Magnum

The brand is commissioning a research project with LITAC to further their commitment to bring accessible, sustainable fashion using by-products from its core ingredients.
Turning food waste into green beauty

Food processing waste, such as canning water, is now being developed into eco-friendly packaging, sustainable cosmetics and other high value commercial products.
The future of footwear

Future Fashion Factory community member Hylo is leading the way in accelerating environmental change in the athletic footwear market.
Revolutionary dyeing process wins prestigious Circular Future Fund prize

Leeds Institute of Textiles and Colour in collaboration with the School of Chemistry, are developing a solution to separate dyes from fibre, enabling easier recycling of the polyester.
The tragedy of the fast fashion landfill

Listen to Mark Sumner, an expert in sustainable fashion speak to Channel 4 about how the West's addiction to fast fashion is leaving an environmental disaster in West Africa.

Events

ITMA 2023 - Transforming the World of Textiles

LITAC is a supporting organisation of ITMA 2023, the world’s largest international textile and garment technology exhibition. ITMA is the place where the entire textile manufacturing value-chain meets every four years to source the latest innovations, collaborations and insights.