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Design+ Traditional handcrafting and sustainability

proposes strategies to enhance the sustainability of the how design thinking can act as a catalyst for the revival and
process. Wool recycling contributes to reducing resource promotion of traditional techniques within a globalized
consumption and minimizing waste production – an and mass-production-driven context. The study proposes
aspect that is particularly important in the fashion sector, the development of a collaborative ecosystem involving
which increasingly promotes responsible consumption designers, artisans, and consumers, aimed at integrating
and circular economy principles. traditional techniques into modern markets in a way that
Previous studies discussing the role of knitting and wool ensures cultural preservation and economic empowerment
recycling within the context of sustainability, the circular of local communities (Figures 8-10).
economy, and Industry 4.0 provide valuable insights into Moreover, Niinimäki and Hassi also emphasize
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the sustainable development of the garment and textile that traditional techniques empower communities and
industry. Čuden examines how knitting can be adapted enhance sustainability by combining cultural heritage with
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to align with circular economy principles by incorporating contemporary practices to promote sustainable fashion.
smart technologies and Industry 4.0 processes to reduce the Traditional handicrafts play a critical role in sustainable
environmental footprint of textile products. Meanwhile, production, offering solutions that align cultural heritage
Maiti et al. analyze the sustainability of knitting processes with the needs of modern society. According to Raven,
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and resulting textile products, focusing on the use of eco- the slow fashion movement incorporates traditional
friendly materials, waste reduction strategies, and the techniques and materials, thereby fostering community
optimization of production processes through advanced engagement around fabrics and garments that respect both
technologies. the environment and the artisans who produce them, as
Another example of a sustainable practice is dyeing with shown in Figure 11.
natural pigments. According to Niinimäki and Hassi, Brown and Vacca highlight the importance of cultural
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natural dyes offer unique colors and are less harmful to sustainability in fashion, emphasizing that traditional
the environment because they lack chemical additives. techniques can contribute to the preservation of cultural
This method not only reduces environmental damage but heritage and the promotion of sustainable development
also promotes creativity and authenticity in fashion. Their practices. They note that understanding cultural
study investigates how sustainability influences consumer parameters can enhance appreciation for and demand for
behavior in fashion and highlights the growing demand for traditional products.
ethically produced products. A study by Sandhu analyzes sustainability strategies
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Traditional techniques, such as embroidery, also employed by designers such as Aneeth Arora, who
provide significant economic opportunities for women in integrate traditional techniques into contemporary design.
remote areas. A study by Li et al. examines the potential This approach not only promotes ethical consumption but
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for the sustainable development of traditional handicrafts also creates opportunities for local communities, thereby
through a design thinking-based approach. They analyze enhancing the sustainability of production systems.

Figure 8. Design as a third culture: Positioned between science and the humanities, design addresses questions of feasibility, viability, and desirability.
Adapted from Li et al. 89

Volume 2 Issue 3 (2025) 12 doi: 10.36922/DP025190027