SRM INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY- RAMAPURAM

Faculty of Science and Humanities

Department of Fashion Designing

EVENT TITLE: Industrial Visit

DATE: 07-10-2025

TIME: 09.00 am onwards

VENUE: Weavers Service Centre, Besant Nagar, Chennai

EVENT CONVENER: Dr. V. Bhanu Rekha, Head of the Department, Fashion Designing

EVENT COORDINATORS : Mr. J. Sathya Narayanan, Ms. Vidhyavathi. V, AP Fashion Designing

 

FAIR VISITED:

Weavers Service Centre, Besant Nagar, Chennai

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.

Key Takeaways

  • Observed and understood the complete process of weaving, including yarn preparation, warping, and loom operation.
  • Learned about various printing methods such as block, screen, and stencil printing.
  • Gained knowledge of jacquard weaving and computerized design systems for creating intricate patterns.
  • Understood the integration of traditional handloom techniques with modern technology.
  • Recognized the importance of sustainability and eco-friendly materials in textile manufacturing.
  • Discovered how the Weavers Service Centre supports artisans through design, marketing, and training assistance.
  • Appreciated the cultural and economic value of India’s handloom and handicraft sector.

 

Student Feedback

Students shared that the visit was highly educational and engaging. They found the live demonstrations and interactions with technical experts extremely beneficial in connecting theoretical classroom learning with real-world applications. Many appreciated learning about the balance between heritage and innovation in textile design. The visit enhanced their understanding of traditional craftsmanship, dyeing processes, and sustainable textile practices.

Overall, the industrial visit to the Weavers Service Centre, Besant Nagar, was an enriching experience that provided valuable insights into the practical aspects of textile production, artistic design, and the importance of preserving India’s weaving traditions while embracing modernization.

OUTCOMES OF THE PROGRAM: (Based on SDG)

SDG 4 – Quality Education

The expo served as a practical learning platform, bridging classroom concepts with real-world applications in garment trade, enhancing students’ industry readiness.

SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth

Students observed how B2B garment trade fosters entrepreneurship, job creation and economic activity, inspiring them to explore career and business opportunities.

SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities

Many exhibitors promoted eco-friendly fabrics and sustainable production processes, contributing to responsible urban and community development through greener fashion supply chains. SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals

The event encouraged collaborative business models, cross-border trade relationships and academic–industry partnerships, reinforcing the role of cooperation in achieving global goals.