Thinking outside the blocks

This paper outlines an ongoing PhD research with the aim to develop an alternative fashion design and garment construction process for the initial design stages, using a practice initiated in three dimensions. The paper was partly triggered by views that meanwhile, especially in design education, there is a need to underline more the practical aspects of the design and making process, for example pattern cutting skills. One industry commentator said: “We have often taken on ex-fashion students either as staff or for work experience, and the majority have never been taught pattern-cutting, yet expecting glittering careers in design” (Everett, 2008) The nature of this design practice research utilizes tacit knowledge. It was therefore necessary to find a method to express such tacit knowledge in a tangible form. Due to its exploratory nature and the need for substantial iterative practical work, the reflective, practice-oriented approach of Action Research was used as lead methodology.