Designing with Purpose: ISAIC’s PIN-UP Workshop at Detroit Month of Design
Last month, as part of Detroit Month of Design, ISAIC proudly hosted two PIN-UP workshops led by designer and ISAIC Pin-Felting Grant winner Sophie Yan, who was also featured as a Month of Design Exhibiting Artist.
During these sessions, participants explored the realities of textile waste, learned how to operate our 60” FeltLOOM machine, and created their very own custom throw pillows using a mix of personal materials and scrap textiles donated by ISAIC, Carhartt, and other partners.
The result? Every pillow started as waste and ended as a one-of-a-kind creation, brought to life by the creativity and dedication of our incredible participants. With Sophie’s guidance, the FeltLOOM machine, and a commitment to sustainability, these upcycled designs proved that sustainability can be stylish, innovative, and personal.
ISAIC’s Journey with the FeltLOOM
ISAIC first welcomed the FeltLOOM needle felting machine in June 2024, made possible through support from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) and the Community Foundation for Southeastern Michigan.
Since then, the machine has become a powerful tool to scale the manufacturing potential for textile waste.
150 community members have joined ISAIC workshops to learn pin felting.
40 Detroit youth have participated through partner-led sessions.
250 pounds of ISAIC textile waste have already been upcycled into new custom yardage.
This work is only the beginning of our mission to transform waste into market-ready, sustainable fabrics.
ISAIC’s Pin-Felting R&D Grant
Our Pin-Felting Research & Development (R&D) Grant invites Detroit-area designers and entrepreneurs to develop products out of textile waste that have the potential to scale.
Grant awardees receive:
Hands-on training with the FeltLOOM machine
Access to textile waste from ISAIC and partners
Workspace and equipment at ISAIC’s advanced manufacturing facility
Business consultation and retail partnerships to develop a limited run of market-ready products
Over the course of six months, participants transform textile waste into new creations all while helping divert textiles from Michigan’s landfills and waterways.
Applications for the 2026 R&D Grant will open in November 2025. Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter and follow ISAIC on social media to stay updated.