Material Matters Lab

Research and explore emergent fabrication technologies in Material Matters.

You’ll have access to the resources needed for:

3D printing
Rapid prototyping
Materials use research

Things to Know

Access

Priority access for students, faculty and staff engaged in research.

Equipment

3D printers
3D printing software
3D scanners

Scenes from the Studio

Several pairs of modified shoes displayed on a table. Textures include white spikes, colourful nodules, and colourful soles.

The Material Matters research and production lab at Emily Carr University of Art + Design showcases a vibrant display of textile and fabric samples. Various materials, including felted pieces, woven fabrics, and handcrafted items, are hung on strings against a dark background. The collection features a mix of bold colors, intricate patterns, and textures, highlighting the creativity and experimentation that takes place in this innovative space.

During the Native Shoe Hack event at the Material Matters satellite lab at the Vancouver Art Gallery, ECU students collaborate with staff, faculty members Hélène Day Fraser and Keith Doyle, and Native Shoes co-founder Tom Claypool. In this image, participants are engaged in a discussion while working on deconstructing and reassembling existing Native shoes. The table is filled with various materials and tools, highlighting the hands-on nature of the project.

ECU students work with staff, ECU faculty members Hélène Day Fraser and Keith Doyle, and Native Shoes co-founder Tom Claypool on creating new footwear by deconstructing and reassembling existing Native shoes at the Native Shoe Hack event, held in June, 2023, at the Material Matters satellite lab at the Vancouver Art Gallery during the Fashion Fictions exhibition. Photo by Perrin Grauer

A table is filled with a variety of early iterative materials created as part of the Charred Wood research initiative at Emily Carr University. The display includes textured fabrics, woven pieces, and other experimental materials made from wood charcoal. Each item is labeled, showcasing the diverse forms and applications being explored by researchers and students. The setting reflects a collaborative and creative environment focused on sustainable design.

Some of the early iterative materials created in part from wood charcoal as part of the Charred Wood research initiative led by ECU faculty members and Material Matters cofounders Hélène Day Fraser and Keith Doyle in partnership with Orlando Rojas of the UBC BioProducts Institute, Tony Bi of the Clean Energy Research Centre and the Boothroyd Band, Nlaka’pamux First Nations. Photo by Perrin Grauer

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