The Transference of Craft to Digital Knowledge through the Medium of Knitted Textiles

Abstract

Current knit design methodology has evolved incorporating a blend of craft and the digital resulting in a need for deeper collaborative networks from a variety of knowledge perspectives. Paramount to this shift is the impact on the relationship and skillsets required between designer, maker and technician. During a practice-led collaboration between a craft-maker and technical designer; this paper acknowledges the unique skills that each participant contributes illustrating the need for a shared knowledge base. The collective skills ensure that the complex technology of seamless knit is understood from multiple viewpoints extending design outputs beyond perceived technical boundaries.
This model of collaborative practice and production incorporates traditional knitwear knowledge and techniques to rethink possibilities of knitwear artefacts produced via mass-production methods. Drawing inspiration from an historical perspective within a New Zealand context, this project explores the process involved in the shift of knowledge required when interpreting traditional craft elements using advanced digital knit practices. A series of knitted artefacts are developed to identify the perceived possibilities, boundaries and limitations of digital knitting methods when interpreting traditional knitting techniques.
The research project investigates the current limits of design and replication of traditional knitted garments when produced using three dimensional seamless knitwear technologies. To date seamless knit technology has predominately been used for basic garment shapes, with minimum colour, pattern or texture exploration. Traditional knit garments include multiple colour usage, pattern or textures therefore representing a technical design challenge when translated into seamless whole garments. This research uses comparative models to test digital knit technologies design capabilities via interpretation of traditional knitted craft elements through practice of seamless knit.
This paper highlights the impacts working in a digital environment has on processes, design outputs, individuals and methods of technical knowledge sharing. This research reflects changing knit design practices through the breaking down of historic design and technical knowledge separations; inviting a more collective milieu between the makers and technology.
Key words: Digital, Craft, Knowledge sharing, knitted textiles.