MakeUse

The research centres around the development and testing of an embedded navigational system by which users can formulate a functional understanding of the construction of a garment/object and its opportunities for manipulation. It asks: How might the encoding of navigational clues and markers into a garment or product aid in its facility for creation and modification by the user, thereby enhancing emotional investment and connection, and extending its functional life? Building on current leading research in zero-waste design and production strategies, how might this strategy extend the post-production lifespan, thereby both further reducing material waste, and slowing the demand for the production of new consumer goods and materials, to the benefit of global ecologies? The interdisciplinary research & development team comprises established and emerging researchers in the fields of fashion, spatial, industrial, textiles and visual communication design. This stage of the MakeUse project culminated in an exhibition-event which looked to introduce the developed system to the public and create an environment for shared learning and engagement.