TextielMuseum

Self-described as a "museum in operation," the TextielMuseum in Tilburg, Netherlands, educates visitors on textiles while serving as a workspace for professionals.

Located in a former textile factory, the museum offers an in-depth look at textile history through immersive exhibitions, as well as interactive, future-focused workspaces for textile innovation.

The Woollen Blanket Factory exhibit displays the machinery once used to clean, spin, and weave raw wool into blankets between 1900 and 1940.

In the Damask weaving atelier, visitors can admire the heritage and know-how of a Brabant weaving company from the 19th century.

Throughout the museum, there are numerous temporary exhibits showcasing fashion, art, and more.

In the TextielLab, visitors enter a work floor in full operation, where professionals operate machinery, load spools of yarn onto machines, and work on projects. Looms are ever-running, weaving fabric one thread at a time. Examples of past projects and experiments are on display, often featuring unusual materials such as metal. In the Design Studio, guests have the opportunity to create their very own socks or a scarf and have them produced to take home.

Visitors can end their trip with a stop at the TextielShop, which sells products created in the building, or a relaxing break at the TextielCafé, where food and drinks are available.