Digital tools, computers, software, imaging, and modelling are stretching the boundaries of making both in the process of creating form and in the development of the design itself. On the face of it, there may appear to be a conflict between the machine/computer and hand-made where historically the machine has represented a threat to craft. However, these technologies also represent a significant opportunity to support the production of hand-crafted objects and to enhance the development of the craft sector. The emergence of affordable digital manufacturing and fabrication tools are acknowledged as having the potential to radically reshape contemporary craft practice, production and consumption.
Current trends in the craft sector show how important it is for craftspeople to embrace opportunities brought by the digital revolution. Craft 4.0 aims to create training tools and a peer network for craftspeople in the areas of digital modelling and digital/additive manufacturing. Furthermore, the project aims to improve digital competencies in the craft sector and in doing so enhance the craft making process. Providing an opportunity for the craftsperson to cultivate product design and development skills, increase sectoral networking locally and internationally while also increasing customer engagement, with the purpose of improving and developing individual craft businesses.
Aims
The project aims to create training tools and a peer network for craftspeople in the areas of Digital Modelling and Digital / Additive Manufacturing.
The project will improve digital competencies in the sector, develop product design and development skills, enhance the craft-making process, increase sectoral networking locally and internationally and increase customer engagement, with the purpose of improving and developing individual craft businesses. Craft 4.0 will result in three main outputs:
- A training model which ensures transparency, transferability and clear learning outcomes
- Training content which allows craftspeople to acquire a set of innovative technological skills
- Guidelines and recommendations which provide an exemplar for potential exploitation in other sectors and levels of education
Co-funded by the Erasmus+ programme of the European Union.
Documents
The Multidimensional Craft Entrepreneur