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RISD’s MFA program in Textiles focuses on the design of textiles for interiors and apparel. Working from a foundation of solid technical skills and a proficient design process, students are encouraged to develop their own vision. Through research they gain an understanding of design as an expression of a continually evolving culture. This serves them well as they go on to become professional problem solvers who are responsive to global human needs at both the individual and community level..

This two-year program focuses on the design of fabrics for industrial or hand production. Geared towards those who have a background in textiles, along with experience in visual studies from an undergraduate program or professional practice, it helps students to broaden and sharpen their skills, develop an individual design process and hone their artistic identity. The program enables students to become well versed in the technical and creative potential of their chosen medium and its context, whether it be interior space, apparel or another option. It also emphasizes studies in drawing and color as well as participation in graduate seminars as a means of building analytical and critical thinking skills along with a foundation for individual expression.

The first year of the program focuses on enriching students’ creative background and expanding their skills, including the use of digital technology in design. The second year allows for more individual direction, with the final semester culminating in a thesis project that entails both studio work and writing. Students are encouraged to create design collections that reflect a depth of research and a well-developed material and visual language, while also breaking new ground.

Graduate students have access to both full- and part-time faculty with expertise in the multi-faceted field, from digital technology to complex woven structures, including jacquard weaving. They work actively in their studios to design woven and printed fabrics and knits or to create one-of-a-kind pieces for galleries and commissions.

A close connection to the professional field is maintained through a required internship, seminar speakers, field trips, visiting critics and communications with experts in the field. Specialized facilities accommodate advanced work and include multi-harness handlooms, computer-interfaced looms, an electronic jacquard loom, an industrial Stoll knitting machine, and a Husqvarna embroidery machine, as well as a fully equipped dye lab, a digital printer and fabric silkscreen studios. Furnished with professional software, the department’s computer lab facilitates the design of printed, woven and knitted fabrics. Valuable resources outside the department include a strong textiles collection in The RISD Museum of Art and equally inspiring textiles resource materials in the Fleet Library at RISD.