elective course 
design with nyc dogs

For most consumers, where and how their clothing is manufactured is, at best, an abstract concept. Many designers promote local, sustainable practices - but this often remains opaque. And the source of the raw materials is often excluded completely.

In this multidisciplinary course, students obtained dog fur from their local grooming center and learned the technique of felting. Developing their own material, students created design or art pieces. They learned how to create a visual concept to present their hyper-local product: one where material is sourced, developed and designed in NYC.

  • Developed a comprehensive, multidisciplinary course for Bachelor students in Integrated Design at Parsons School of Design

  • Instructed and guided students in applying design principles and practices within an integrated framework

My Role

Operating within constraints fosters ideas that might not typically emerge. The type and quantity of dog fur acquired by the students significantly influenced the design process.

Embracing Constraints

Moving through the Process

Students progress through process stages: mastering the art of wet felting, crafting a design, and exploring ways to present their work through imagery.

Paws & Pearls Colin Campbell

Student Work

Cloud Alex Fisher

Students make a hyper-local product - one that's sourced, crafted and designed entirely in NYC.

Felted Wool and Doghair Halter Top Ally Kessler

Design students collaborate with a photography student to capture their products.

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