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Ishitaa Khemani

University of the Arts London

I am a London based textile designer specialising in Stitch. Sustainability sits at the core of my practice, working with natural materials, dyes and low-impact techniques. My work explores how textiles can exist in harmony with ecological cycles, reimagining them as living materials. Responding to the environmental impact of textile waste, I focus on biodegradable design and mindful making, positioning my practice within a broader conversation around circularity, material responsibility and regenerative design.

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Nature's Alchemy

Category: Interior

Competitions: Home Competition 2026

Nature's Alchemy is a material-led textile project that transforms naturally fallen leaves into botanical embellishments through low-impact preservation techniques. It explores an alternative to plastic-based embellishments for fashion and interiors by using minimally processed, biodegradable materials. By reimagining discarded leaves as a valuable resource, the project challenges the throwaway culture of synthetic design while promoting circularity and more mindful material use. Inspired by sustained observation of seasonal change at Kew Gardens and guided by principles of biomimicry, the project translates nature's cycles of growth, transformation and renewal into tactile textile surfaces. Glycerin preservation enables the leaves to retain their flexibility, allowing them to be stitched into layered compositions, while natural shellac and mineral pigments introduce colour, luminosity and depth. Presented as a series of framed botanical textile artworks for interiors, the collection demonstrates one application of this emerging material system and its potential for broader use in textile decoration and surface design. By demonstrating the creative potential of overlooked natural resources, Nature's Alchemy advocates for a slower, regenerative approach to making and a future where innovation, craftsmanship and ecological responsibility are intrinsically connected.

In association with Arts Thread

Working with our partners at Arts Thread to develop lifelong learning and career opportunities for students of fashion and design. Our partnership provides the opportunity to compete on a world stage, participate in industry led workshops, set up an outstanding portfolio and gain access to the resources that will kickstart careers in fashion and design.