What Is Conductive Embroidery?
Students Leading the Way in Innovation: University Student Project
What if your jacket could do more than keep you warm — what if it could also generate energy? Consider conductive embroidery.
That’s the idea behind Kinetic Outerwear, an innovative student project from the University of the West of England, created by textile designer Florence Robinson (flostextiles). By combining conductive thread, embroidery, and smart textile design, the project explores how Conductive Embroidery can turn everyday movement into usable energy, stitched directly into clothing.
From movement to energy
Using conductive thread and the principles of triboelectric nanogenerators — technology that turns movement into electrical energy — Flo created embroidered samples that could light up an LED just by tapping or rubbing the fabric. This experiment highlights the real-world potential of Conductive Embroidery in wearable technology.
This simple test proved the idea could work and pointed to a future in which outdoor clothing could help power small devices while hiking, biking, or spending long days outdoors.
The idea is simple: as you move, energy is created.
The patterns were inspired by firebreak lines used to stop wildfires. Importantly, these meandering lines increased the surface area of conductive thread within each design.
Designed for the outdoors
Flo’s color palette was inspired by her daily walks through green spaces on campus.
The embroidery patterns were influenced by firebreak lines used to stop wildfires.
The meandering lines also helped increase the amount of conductive thread in each design.
More stitches meant more conductive thread.
More conductive thread meant more potential energy, a key principle behind effective Conductive Embroidery design.
Why embroidery mattered
To create the right texture and friction, Flo used Wilcom’s Programmed Split. Its textural surface helped increase contact and movement, important for generating energy.
The designs were drawn using a Wacom tablet and Illustrator, then brought into Wilcom EmbroideryStudio, where stitch type, density, and texture could be carefully controlled.
Designed to work together
The final collection followed a layered system common in hiking apparel, allowing garments to connect and work together. Multiple layers meant greater energy harvesting potential — all while remaining wearable and practical.
Awards & Recognition
2nd Prize – The Clothworkers’ Company Award (U1 Category)
Awarded for a material-led construction in fashion, accessories, or interiors, developed through non-conventional processes, materials, or emerging technologies.
Winner – Bradford Textile Society Centenary Award (2025)
Selected from all entries across the 2025 design competition, this prestigious award recognizes outstanding achievement in:
- Sustainability
- Innovation
- Textile Craftsmanship
A huge congratulations to Flo, and thank you to @thebradfordtextilesociety for supporting emerging textile talent.
Looking ahead
Kinetic Outerwear isn’t about technology replacing nature. It’s about using technology to encourage people to spend more time outdoors.
Created for modern explorers, creatives, and outdoor enthusiasts, the project shows how conductive embroidery can bring together fashion, technology, and environmental thinking.
And this is only the beginning.
Flo plans to continue developing the concept, with digital embroidery, and Wilcom, playing an important role along the way.
Because sometimes, the future of innovation isn’t plugged in — it’s stitched in.
Watch Alice Aphra Interview Flo About Her Process
Follow Florence Robinson: Instagram: @flostextiles
Follow Alice Aphra: Instagram: @AliceAphra
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