Flex Factory Summer Innovation Program Invites Students to be Business Founders and Developers

This year, the Wilson College of Textiles hosted its second annual Flex Factory Summer Innovation Program. It provides students with the opportunity to explore product and business creation from the ground up. At the completion of the program, participants develop a practical prototype and business model with the support of entrepreneurial mentors and the latest technological resources available at the W. Duke Kimbrell Flex Factory. 

The program also prepares students for real-world entrepreneurial efforts, such as the Wilson College of Textiles Pitch to the Pack competition. There, students with ideas to push the textile industry forward can compete for monetary awards to be used for prototyping and business development.

Students in the program showcased their projects at Hunt Library to the NC State community, and KC Soong’s project was voted as an audience favorite. She then hosted a workshop in Hunt Library on Aug. 29 where participants got to interact with and test her product, a make-your-own frog pincushion. 

Olivia Jurney

• B.S. Fashion and Textile Design – Fashion Design
• Project: Selene Top

What did you work on this summer?

I created pleated tops with the ability to adapt to a wider range of body types and sizes. Fabric manipulation and adjustable tie closures allow a personalized fit, and vertical pleat lines create a flattering silhouette. They also have sublimation printed graphics to add to the visual interest of the tops.

Why did you want to participate in the Summer Innovation Program?

I wanted to have a better grasp of how prototype manufacturing played out in the professional setting and to develop my tech pack, garment research and entrepreneurial skills.

What was the most impactful part of the program?

The availability of the resources on campus and through guest speaker sessions was most impactful. I felt fully supported throughout the entire process, and my mentor made sure the project stayed on track. I enjoyed the week-by-week structure of the program to help move the process along!

Do you plan to continue your business after this program ends? If so, what’s next?

I plan to expand the number and size range of these tops and may create an online storefront to sell them in the near future. Having the tools and industry contacts to make this happen greatly assists the process.

Hoorieeh Abbasi Mahmoodabadi

• Ph.D. Fiber and Polymer Science
• Project: Revolutionizing Recovery: Next-Gen Compression Arm Sleeves Bridging Lymphedema Care and Athletic Performance

What did you work on this summer?

I worked on designing a new generation compression arm sleeve that supports both medical recovery and athletic performance. It helps cancer survivors manage lymphedema while also boosting circulation and recovery for athletes – combining comfort, function and innovation in one wearable solution.

What did you work on during the program?

Our team engineered an innovative sleeve using advanced compression technology and cutting-edge materials. The design applies targeted, graduated pressure to promote lymphatic fluid movement, reducing swelling and discomfort for those with lymphedema. At the same time, the compression improves circulation, reduces fatigue and accelerates muscle recovery for athletes after intense physical activity.

What prototyping / Flex Factory equipment did you use and how?

During the Summer Innovation Program, I used several tools in the Flex Factory to prototype and refine the compression arm sleeve. One of the primary tools I used was the industrial sewing machine, which allowed us to precisely stitch and layer the advanced materials used in the sleeve – critical for achieving consistent compression across different zones of the arm.

I used CAD software and laser cutting machines to create accurate fabric templates, which improved both precision and efficiency in our iterative design process. Overall, the Flex Factory gave us hands-on access to the tools needed to bring a high-performance, medical-grade product from concept to functional prototype.”

What was the most valuable thing you learned?

This experience not only deepened my understanding of bioengineering and product development, but also taught me the importance of designing inclusive solutions that meet diverse human needs.

KC Soong

• Master of Textiles
• Project: Frog Pincushion Craft Kit

What did you work on this summer?

About a year ago, I designed the original frog pincushion to keep my sewing notions organized. The Summer Innovation Program gave me the opportunity to modify the complex design into a viable commercial craft kit for others to learn how to make their own.

Why did you want to participate in the Summer Innovation Program?

The program provided guest speakers, mentors and access to the Flex Factory. These resources, especially the mentorship from Daniel Weispfenning, supported my project in terms of design decisions, technical applications and marketing strategies.

What was the most valuable skill you learned?

I was introduced to operating the embroidery machines, the digital textile printers, the cutter and their softwares this summer. Testing the capabilities of each machine and software provided valuable information on the appropriate production method for the craft kits. For example, fusible interlinings were added to the back of the plain cotton fabrics to get cleaner cuts from the cutter and prevent fraying in the packagings.

Do you plan to continue your business after this program ends? If so, what’s next?

When I shared the original frog pincushion on social media, the project was well-received with requests for a pattern release. I have always been interested in selling my designs and making this craft kit is a nice start. 

The frog pincushion craft kit is the first product released by my new business, Kace Makery. I am looking forward to improving the product further from the feedback received at the final showcase. I would also like to continue developing new products and grow with the business.

Mayuri Thakur

• M.S. Textiles
• Project: Exploring the Potential of Hemp in Apparel

What did you work on this summer?

My project focused on identifying the optimal blend ratio of hemp and Pima cotton, with the aim of maximizing the proportion of hemp in knitted textile applications – specifically undergarments, such as sustainable period panties.

Why did you want to participate in the Summer Innovation Program?

The Summer Innovation Program provides an exceptional platform for research and innovation, particularly through access to the Flex Factory and the invaluable support of lab manager Bailey Knight. Her flexibility and encouragement made it possible for me to balance this project alongside my summer internship. The Flex Factory’s comprehensive textile processing capabilities – including long staple spinning, knitting, sewing and printing – made it the ideal environment to bring my project to life.

What prototyping / Flex Factory equipment did you use and how?

I utilized the Mesdan spinning line to produce yarns, which were then processed using knitting machines to create fabric prototypes. Thanks to the program’s $300 funding support, I was also able to conduct comprehensive material testing using equipment in the physical testing lab.

What was the most valuable thing you learned?

I learned that while the ideation phase of innovation is exciting, thoughtful planning and a methodical approach are critical to determining whether a project ultimately succeeds or fails.