The Textile Trust, Aotearoa was established to bring people together through a shared interest in textiles, clothing, fibre, and material culture. We believe that textiles connect people, communities, industries, histories, and ideas, creating opportunities for learning, research, creativity, and collaboration.
The Trust provides a place where makers, researchers, students, industry professionals, collectors, and the public can explore the many roles textiles play in our lives. Through collections, research, education, and shared experiences, we encourage a deeper understanding of textile heritage and contemporary practice.
Our Purpose
The Textile Trust Aotearoa exists to:
- Foster connections between people through textiles and textile-related activities.
- Support research and development in textiles, with a particular interest in wool, natural fibres, and sustainable textile innovation.
- Educate and inform the public about the cultural, historical, artistic, and practical significance of textiles.
- Develop and care for collections that provide opportunities for research, study, and inspiration.
- Provide access to a reference library and research resources.
- Create opportunities for collaboration, discussion, and creative exchange.
Collections & Research
Textiles hold stories about the people who made, wore, traded, repaired, and valued them. The Trust is committed to building collections that support research and provide reference material for makers, students, scholars, designers, and industry professionals.
Our collections include textiles, garments, tools, books, archives, photographs, samples, art, and other materials that contribute to a deeper understanding of textile history, technology, and practice.
Learning & Community
Learning is at the heart of the Trust’s activities. Through workshops, talks, exhibitions, demonstrations, publications, and events, we encourage the sharing of knowledge and skills across generations and disciplines.
We also provide opportunities for people to meet, work together, exchange ideas, and develop projects that contribute to the future of textiles in New Zealand.
Our Vision
We are part of a vibrant community where knowledge and collections are shared, innovation is encouraged, and people are connected through a common love of textiles. By supporting research, learning, and collaboration, we aim to ensure that textile knowledge and creativity remain accessible and relevant for future generations.
Join Us
Whether you are a maker, researcher, student, collector, industry professional, volunteer, or simply curious about textiles, we welcome your involvement. The Textile Trust Aotearoa is a place to learn, explore, contribute, and connect with others who share an interest in the world of textiles.