DesignX Summer 2026 was a blast!
This summer, we invited our students to reflect on a BIG question: What does it mean to be human? They explored it through Fashion Design, Toy Design, and Architecture. Based in Silicon Valley, at the heart of AI advancement, we believe this is a defining question of our time.
Through rigorous design and hands-on making, we explored how young people might deepen their connection to themselves and the physical world. Exploring the Human Senses, students wove sight, sound, scent, taste, touch, and intuition into their projects, creating work that was not only original, but deeply personal, and unmistakably expressive of who they are.
They left us inspired—their unbridled creativity, unconditioned perspectives, and contagious joy.
A world that cultivates their creativity is a world full of hope.
Until next time… enjoy glimpses of Summer 2026 below.
Deep dive into some of the student creations from this summer!
Learn more about DesignX programs:
Fashion Design
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2nd-3rd grade
In this week-long studio designed for our youngest designers, students explore the full creative journey of fashion—from idea to finished garment. Working with a simple bottom (skirt or shorts), students learn how clothing is imagined, designed, and made, with an emphasis on creativity, self-expression, and the delight of bringing an idea into form.
Time permitting, students explore concepts in fashion upcycling, designing and making coordinated separates and accessories using reclaimed materials, learning how thoughtful design can transform discarded materials into something meaningful and expressive.
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4th-5th grade
Fashion Design II builds on foundational skills while introducing greater complexity, independence, and creative challenge. Students design and construct a more advanced garment—a top—taking it from concept through completion in a supportive, design-focused environment.
As students gain confidence, they work on more advanced sewing techniques such as curves and darts, exploring creative design challenges inspired by real-world fashion. Instruction is tailored to each student’s experience level, supporting both beginners and returning students as they develop independence on the sewing machines. No prior sewing experience is required.
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6th-9th grade
Fashion Design III is designed for older students who are ready to spread their creative wings—deepening both their creative and technical practice. In this studio, students take on the challenge of designing and constructing a full garment—such as a dress, romper, or two piece separates.
With increased independence and responsibility, students play a greater role in shaping their process and outcomes. Instruction and supervision are responsive to individual skill levels, supporting both first-time sewists and returning students, enabling them to refine technique, decision-making, and craftsmanship. Prior sewing experience is welcome but not required.
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Soft Toy Design
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2nd-5th grade
Toy Design I introduces students to the world of soft-toy making through hands-on exploration of fabric and other soft materials. In this studio-style environment, budding designers imagine and develop original toy concepts that may be furry, funny, or fantastical.
Through guided design exploration, students learn how toys take shape—from concept to construction—while considering how they are held, played with, and experienced. They then bring their ideas into form through careful making, developing foundational skills in creative thinking, craftsmanship, and the joy of creating something playful and personal.
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Architecture
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5th-9th grade
Architecture introduces students to the fundamentals of architecture through hands-on design and model making. Working with materials such as foam board, chipboard, wood, and mixed media, students learn how architectural ideas take shape in three dimensions.
In this studio-style environment, budding architects explore structure, scale, and spatial composition while considering how buildings are experienced by the people who inhabit them. Through guided design exploration and careful making, students develop foundational skills in problem-solving, craftsmanship, and architectural thinking—bringing their ideas for physical spaces into form.
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Wood Toy Design
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4th-8th grade
Toy Design II introduces students to the world of wood working in the context of toys, expanding their understanding of materials, structure, and play. In this hands-on studio, students design and build an original wood toy or game, learning how ideas about play, interaction, and function shape design decisions.
As students work with new tools and materials, practicing simple joinery, sanding and finishing, they develop spatial reasoning and confidence in making, while gaining insight into how toys are experienced and enjoyed. The session concludes with a Toy Expo, where students proudly present their finished creations.
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Who Teaches at DesignX?
Our programs are led by DesignX Fellows — A highly curated cohort of talented and emerging young designers who bring fresh ideas, technical skill, and genuine excitement into the classroom. Fellows come from leading design schools and are chosen for their craft, creativity, and ability to encourage students through every step of the design process.
During the week, trained Fellows mentor students one-on-one, celebrate their breakthroughs, and help bring a class full of unique visions to life.
We are honored to put our students in the hands of those creating the future of our designed world.
FAQ’s
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Q: What ages are DesignX programs for?
A: DesignX programs are designed for students ages 7–15. Summer programs typically serve students entering grades 2 through 9.
Q: What does the registration fee cover?
A: The registration fee pays for the costs of all materials, tools, use of equipment, instruction by trained professional designers, assistant support for small class ratios, and access to our studio facilities. Students do not need to bring any supplies.
Q: Do you offer sibling or family discounts?
A: We do not offer a fixed sibling discount, though we do run occassional friends and family promotional discounts. You can contact our team for info on current promotions.
Q: What payment methods do you accept?
A: We accept all major credit cards through our online registration system.
Q: Does receiving a registration email mean my child’s spot is confirmed?
A: No. The initial registration email confirms receipt only and does not secure a spot. You will know if your child’s place is confirmed after receiving a ‘Registration Fulfilled’ email from DesignX.
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Q: What are the camp hours?
A: Camp runs Monday through Friday from 9:00am–4:00pm. Drop-off begins at 8:40am and pick-up ends at 4:15pm.
Q: Where are DesignX programs located?
A: We hold all our DesignX programs in Los Altos, California at various partner school locations. You can contact our team for more location info.
Q: Can my child be placed with a friend?
A: Yes! Please contact us before the program begins so we can confirm placement, subject to availability.
Q: What Happens at a DesignX Program?
A: Each day includes design lessons, hands-on studio work, breaks, lunch, and extended design time in the afternoon.
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Q: What Are Your Allergy Policies?
A: DesignX maintains a strict nut-free policy. All lunches and snacks must be nut-free.
Q: What happens if my child becomes ill during the day?
A: We will contact you immediately if your child falls ill during a program using the emergency information provided at registration. Students will wait in a supervised area until pickup.
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Q: How Do DesignX Instructors Approach Teaching?
A: DesignX teaches creative intelligence through studio-style learning. Students work with real materials, real tools, and real constraints while developing imagination, problem-solving, craftsmanship, and confidence.
Q: Does my child need prior experience?
A: No experience is required! We recommend enrolling by age or grade rather than skill level, as our curriculum supports both beginners and more experienced students.
Q: What happens at the end of the program?
A: Programs culminate in a design showcase or fashion show where students share their work with families.
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Q: Do you provide lunch?
A: Lunch is not provided. Families should pack a nut-free lunch, snacks, and water bottle each day.
Q: What should my child wear or bring?
A: Students should wear comfortable clothes suitable for making and closed-toe shoes. Sunscreen should be applied before arrival. We provide all building materials, so all you need to worry about is packing a lunch.
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Q: Do you offer refunds or cancellations?
A: Refund and cancellation policies are outlined on our website. Please review them carefully or contact us with questions.
Q: Do you offer extended care?
A: DesignX does not offer regular before or after-care for summer programs.