Rachel Stauffer, a senior at Kent State University double majoring in Fashion Design and Business Marketing, is using fashion as a vehicle for environmental change.
Her latest project, a seven-look biodegradable collection titled "Bury Me," blends technical innovation with bold sustainability goals. Thanks to her creative vision and access to Kent State’s Design Innovation (DI) Hub, Stauffer is redefining what’s possible in contemporary fashion.
Fashion With a Purpose
Her collection, "Bury Me," is designed to safely return to the earth. Each look is hand-dyed using natural dyes and hand-printed with 3D-printed block templates. "I was inspired by the growing issue of clothing overconsumption and the harsh reality that most garments—even those donated to Goodwill—ultimately end up in landfills," she explains.
"My design work is driven by a deep desire to explore meaningful narratives through clothing," Rachel says. "I view fashion not just as an aesthetic practice, but as a powerful tool for change."
The DI Hub as a Launchpad
Stauffer first encountered the DI Hub during a high school tour of Kent State. Later, as a sophomore, she took a DI Hub Orientation to become a DI Hub member and began experimenting with dye sublimation printing for classroom projects. That early curiosity led to her using the DI Hub's more advanced resources during her capstone project.
"I utilized several tools and resources from the DI Hub to create my project, including the laser cutters, CNC router, and most importantly, the 3D printer," Stauffer says. She collaborated with DI staff throughout the process. "Shannon [Hines, DI’s Makerspace Manager] guided me through the summer and school year, helping bring my block print vision to life. The student staff were also incredibly supportive, teaching me how to operate the machines and introducing me to various technologies."
The hands-on learning environment helped Stauffer overcome the challenges of creating precise block prints. "There were many problem-solving moments as I tried to perfect the technique," she recalls. "The DI Hub staff suggested creative solutions and helped me refine my approach to achieve the cleanest block prints possible."
Skill Building and Real-World Impact
Stauffer says the DI Hub experience taught her not only technical skills, but also how to remain adaptable and flexible in creative problem-solving. "Whether it was overcoming setbacks or embracing improvements, I gained the ability to pivot and refine my ideas based on real-world challenges."
Her biodegradable research has already reached international audiences. Stauffer presented at the International Fashion Technology Conference (IFFTI) in London and is scheduled to present at the ESDRI Research Showcase and the Kent State Undergraduate Research Symposium. Her full collection was also on display at the Annual Kent State Fashion Show.
"I would one hundred percent recommend the DI Hub to others," Rachel affirms. "The range of possibilities, tools, and resources available there is incredible. While the dye sublimation machine is well-known within the fashion school, there are countless other tools and technologies that can spark innovation and creativity."
