Thinking Through Knitting: Hand Knit making for rapid architectural prototyping

Elizabeth Gaston*, Jane Scott

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

This paper demonstrates the value of hand knit process in architectural prototyping. Knit is a highly specifiable, additive manufacturing process. Knit architecturesrely on knit fabric properties to generate form which requires prototyping to assess material behaviour; this is developed in conjunction with computational design approaches. Hand knit can be a successful alternative in prototyping, combining simplicity of production with additional craft knowledge gained through the experience of manipulating materials directly. Four parameters were investigated at two scales of materials, resulting in a lexicon of knitted forms addressing three design questions. The outcomes demonstrated self-supporting 3-D forms utilising the inherent curvature of knitted fabrics and integral seaming techniques. The importance of hand process in the investigation was key, allowing simultaneous evaluation of materials and production methods but more importantly extending the cognitive dimension of design development by restoring the intimate relationship between maker and materials in craft process.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication[ ] With Design: Reinventing Design Modes
Subtitle of host publicationProceedings of the 9th Congress of the International Association of Societies of Design Research (IASDR 2021)
Place of PublicationSingapore
PublisherSpringer
Pages3049-3058
Number of pages10
Edition1
ISBN (Electronic)9789811944727
ISBN (Print)9789811944710
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 6 Nov 2022
EventInternational Association of Societies of Design Research: With Design:Reinventing Design Modes - Hong Kong Poly University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Duration: 5 Dec 20219 Dec 2021
https://www.iasdr2021.org/

Conference

ConferenceInternational Association of Societies of Design Research
Abbreviated titleIASDR 2021
Country/TerritoryHong Kong
CityHong Kong
Period5/12/219/12/21
Internet address

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