Project Runway

Twenty designers must go in front of Heidi, Michael, Nina, and Tim to make a case why they deserve one of the 16 coveted spots in the competition. Once chosen, the designers barely have a chance to celebrate before being awoken at the crack of dawn.

The unconventional challenge lives up to its name when the designers arrive at a pet store. Tim informs them that they will find all the materials they need inside, and they quickly realize this is their opportunity to showcase their uniqueness.

The designers are broken into teams of two to create a design that’s larger than life-their models are stilt walkers. In the outdoor challenge, the runway show is held outside in New York for all to see. Kim Kardashian serves as guest judge.

The designers quickly realize they are in for a tough challenge when it is revealed the Nina Garcia is their client. The stakes are raised as Nina tells them she will wear the winning look to an important industry event.

The designers learn they will be competing in teams to design a piece inspired by Heidi Klum for New Balance sneakers, but in order to be crowned team captain they must win a different kind of race. Model Erin Wasson serves as guest judge.

The designers become students for a day when they are partnered with the Harlem School of the Arts. They’re tasked to create a piece of art that will serve as the inspiration for their next garment. Kenneth Cole serves as guest judge.

To the delight of the designers, the HP Create Your Own Fabric Challenge is back - with a twist. Designers will work in two teams of five to create a cohesive collection. Armed with HP video cameras, they head out into the city.

When Heidi introduces nine men on the runway, the designers are stunned. But they quickly breathe a sigh of relief when Tim reveals that the men are not their models; they’ll be designing for their significant others.

The designers are treated to a special performance from their new client: up-and-comers and the first unsigned band to ever grace the cover of Rolling Stone Magazine, The Sheepdogs.

For the Piperlime.com challenge, the designers are going back in time-the seventies will serve as inspiration for their challenge. Olivia Palermo serves as guest judge.

Exotic birds serve as the inspiration for the L’Oreal challenge as the designers go head-to-head with one another, putting one in the top and one in the bottom during judging. Francisco Costa serves as guest judge for the challenge.

The judges want to see their visions as designers, so they challenge them to create a mini-collection. Actress Zoe Saldana serves as guest judge.

Tim Gunn travels to the homes of the finalists to check in on their progress before they head back to NY.

Things get off to a bumpy start for the final designers as they frantically get ready to show at fashion week. With fair warning to step up their game, the designers make every minute of preparation count.

In this “Project Runway” Season 9 wrap-up special, beloved mentor Tim Gunn reveals some of the show’s biggest secrets and gives his unedited thoughts.