Early registration opens for AATCC 2026 Coloration Conference

The American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC) has announced that the association will host the Coloration Conference, Feb. 24–25, 2026, at the StateView Hotel in Raleigh, N.C.

This event will bring together professionals from across the textile and color industries to explore the latest trends, technologies, and innovations shaping the future of coloration.

About the conference

The program will highlight sustainable practices, digital transformation, and advancements in dyeing technology – from lab design and color communication to natural dyes and waterless coloration systems. Attendees will gain valuable insights into modern production methods, material innovations, and testing techniques driving performance and sustainability in today’s textile supply chain.

This event is designed for professionals involved in textile coloration, product development, research and development, testing, quality control, and sustainability. It welcomes representatives from brands, mills, and suppliers who are eager to deepen their expertise and stay connected with industry advancements. Participants will gain valuable insights into emerging technological and market trends, network with peers and leading experts in textile coloration, and experience hands-on learning through lab tours and technical sessions. Be inspired by innovative leaders who are shaping the future of color in textiles.

For more program details, visit aatcc.org/coloration.

Program highlights

Note: program content is currently in development. Topics listed below could change.

• Designing & Modernizing Dyeing Labs for the Future: Explore strategies for upgrading lab environments to meet the demands of next-generation coloration.
• LEDs and Their Challenges: Understand the implications of LED lighting for color perception and control.
• Digital Standards & Color Communication in the LED/UV Era: Learn how digital tools are reshaping global color management practices.
• Color Matching & Control: Address best practices for achieving and maintaining accurate, consistent color.
• Panel Discussions: Hear multiple perspectives from industry experts on evolving challenges and opportunities in coloration.
• Fibre52: Natural Fibers & Efficiency Analytics: Discover innovative, sustainable processing methods for cotton and natural fibers.
• Preparation for Synthetic Fibers: Examine modern techniques to improve dye uptake and performance in synthetics.
• Challenges of Recycled Fibers: Gain insight into coloration issues and solutions for circular textile systems.
• Natural & Bio-Based Dyes: Explore emerging dye sources and applications from natural and bio-based materials.
• New Color Application Technologies: See how automation and digitalization are revolutionizing the dyeing process.
• AATCC Test Methods: Learn about recent updates and applications in AATCC colorfastness and testing standards.
• North Carolina State University Wilson College of Textiles: Guided tours of the analytical service lab, digital design lab, TPACC and the dyeing and finishing pilot labs at the Wilson College of Textiles.

To take advantage of early-bird discount rates, register by Feb. 10, 2026. To register, click here.