SUMMARY OF THE EVENT

An industrial visit was organized to the Weavers Service Centre (WSC), Besant Nagar, Chennai, to provide students with firsthand exposure to the various stages of textile production and the application of traditional weaving and printing techniques. The visit aimed to enhance students’ technical knowledge, creativity, and understanding of India’s rich textile heritage.

Upon arrival, students were warmly welcomed by the officials and were briefed about the history and objectives of the Weavers Service Centre, which functions under the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India. The centre’s primary mission is to support handloom weavers and promote indigenous textile crafts through research, design development, and technical training.

Students visited different sections of the centre, including the Design Studio, Weaving Section, Dyeing and Printing Unit, and Textile Sample Display Gallery. They witnessed demonstrations on loom operation, jacquard pattern creation, and motif design using CAD tools. The staff explained how traditional handlooms coexist with semi-automatic and modern looms to achieve both intricate and contemporary fabric designs.

In the printing section, students observed the process of block printing, screen printing, and stencil work, gaining insights into color mixing, fabric preparation, and printing paste formulation. The dyeing department showcased both natural and synthetic dyeing methods, explaining the chemical and ecological aspects involved. Students were also introduced to the use of eco-friendly dyes and sustainable practices in textile finishing.

The session concluded with an interactive discussion, where students clarified their doubts and shared their observations about how design innovation and technology contribute to preserving traditional crafts while meeting modern fashion demands. The visit provided a comprehensive understanding of how creativity, craftsmanship, and science come together in textile production.