Design Values, Craft, and Futures: How do the Values, Skill, and Thought Processes Embodied in Craft Translate to our Future Design Paradigms?

<p>This thesis project began as a study in traditional craft methodologies and ways of understanding design with the goal of learning how to better inform our often technologically focused futures. Over the course of the project it evolved into a study in the process itself and became an exploration of what it means to engage in material centered design research and learning. Through a process of material engagement, as well as learning through making with both analog and digital fabrication tools, I took on a series of studies to better understand for myself how to apply a craft and skills based learning mind set. As my work progressed I evaluated my studies based on different levels of perceived value. I was able to synthesize the learnings into a framework that could be used to explore how both the tangible and intangible qualities of craft might help us to inform our design exploration and research process methods.</p>