Researchers at the College of Human Ecology (CHE) at Cornell University have developed a groundbreaking method called LivingLoom, which integrates living plants into textiles. This innovative approach aims to foster a more symbiotic and collaborative relationship between humans and plants, moving beyond traditional utilitarian uses like food or fabrication materials. The project, led by Jingwen Zhu, a doctoral student in human behavior design, and Cindy Hsin-Liu Kao, an associate professor of human-centered design, was presented at the Association for Computing Machinery Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems (CHI '25) in Yokohama, Japan, where it won a Best Paper award. LivingLoom utilizes a hydrogel material to weave seeds, such as chia seeds, into functional threads. These threads are then integrated into various textile items, including hairbands, wristbands, hats, and sandals. The hydrogel provides the seeds with the necessary nutrients, moisture, and support to grow into sprouts when properly cared for. To create these plant-integrated textiles, the researchers employed a digital Jacquard loom, which allows for the design of complex structures that promote water retention and root growth. In a diary-based user study, 10 participants wore LivingLoom wristbands for three consecutive days, logging their experiences and interactions with the wearable plants. Participants were instructed to wear the bands for 2 to 8 hours daily and return them after the trial period for interviews with the research team. The wristbands were designed to be worn in the late summer, allowing for ease of use with short sleeves. Many participants found the experience emotionally engaging, with some describing a deep connection to the plants. One participant noted feeling recharged in the morning, paralleling their own refreshed state with the growth of the plants. Another expressed sadness when a sprout fell off, highlighting the intimate bond formed through direct contact with the living material. According to Kao, this proximity between the wearer and the plants creates a unique and rare experience, reinforcing the emotional and physical connection. The study also explored other potential applications of LivingLoom, such as self-caring hats and garden pillows. Participants particularly liked the idea of hats and hairbands, as they are commonly worn and less likely to interfere with daily activities while being exposed to sunlight. Kao emphasized the broader possibilities of this technology, suggesting it could be used for digital agriculture and food science applications. For instance, the yarn could incorporate sensors to monitor soil conditions automatically, enhancing the practical utility of the living textiles. The development of LivingLoom builds on previous work by Kao’s Hybrid Body Lab, known as EcoThreads. EcoThreads involved wet spinning and thread coating techniques to create functional threads from biomaterials. In the LivingLoom process, the key innovation is the incorporation of seeds directly into the hydrogel during wet spinning, ensuring that the resulting yarn contains viable seeds ready to grow. This project has the potential to redefine how we interact with plants and our environment, promoting a more sustainable and interconnected future. By integrating living plants into everyday items, LivingLoom encourages users to engage more actively with nature, potentially leading to greater awareness and appreciation of plant life. Industry insiders have praised the LivingLoom project for its innovative approach and potential impact. They highlight the dual benefits of enhancing personal connectivity with nature and advancing technological applications in sustainable design. The project’s success at a prestigious conference like CHI '25 underscores its significance in the field of human-computer interaction and wearable technology. Cornell University’s commitment to interdisciplinary research and sustainability is evident in this project, showcasing the university’s leadership in innovative design solutions.