Leeds Institute of Textiles and Colour

Overview

The Leeds Institute of Textiles and Colour (LITAC) is a world leading research institute bringing together multi-disciplinary academic expertise in design, technology, science and engineering. We work collaboratively with partners globally to tackle important research challenges across textiles, colour and fashion.

Our expertise is built on a history of nearly a 150 years of research in textile technology and colour science, working together with industry, charities and Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) – including some of the world’s most well-known organisations and brands.

As a collaborative research institute, we work with partners to create solutions that address the needs of industry, society and the environment. We develop new materials, processes, manufacturing methods, digital tools and technology, and we inform decision-making.

Our work is supported by one of the most extensively equipped research facilities in the world.

News

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

Future Fashion Factory (FFF) hosts IP Legal Lab with Clarion Law

In a free, in-person event, FFF and Clarion will be providing an overview of how intellectual property rights can be used to protect new technologies. 9 October, 9am — 1pm. Register to reserve your place.
LITAC PhD Scholarship available for applications

A fully-funded PHD project, 'Changes to textile fibres during manufacturing and their service life,' will produce work in collaboration with Burberry Ltd (UK) and Gap Inc (USA).
The Innovate UK Textile Fund Call is now live

The Innovate UK Textile Fund is an exciting opportunity for businesses in the UK fashion and textile sector who are looking to develop innovative solutions to pressing industry challenges.
LITAC Professor featured in Vogue Business

Professor Stephen Westland offers his expertise on how Artificial Intelligence could enable a new model of on-demand manufacturing in the UK fashion and textile industry.
Dr Sumner talks to Washington Post about Zara rebrand

LITAC's Dr Mark Sumner is quoted in this piece on how Zara is upscaling its image by drawing in some of the biggest talent in the fashion industry.
New LITAC research on manufacturing and microfibres

Changes to fibre composition and the systems used to spin yarn could reduce impact on the environment.
A stitch in time

Take a look back at 150 years of textiles innovation at the University of Leeds.

International Textiles and Colour Conference 2025

An aerial view of the University of Leeds campus

The inaugural International Textiles and Colour Conference 2025 (ITCC 2025) will be co-hosted by the Leeds Institute of Textiles and Colour (LITAC) and School of Design at the University of Leeds.

For more information email Giorgio Grande at g.grande@leeds.ac.uk.