Integration of Digital Technologies Into Craft Practices

Abstract

Hybrid approaches blending craft practices and digital technologies are beginning to flourish in finding solutions to global problems. In this study, we compare and report recent design literature and practice-based projects indicating craft approaches from Turkey and the UK in thematic order to discuss them in terms of the creative economy, sustainability, collaborations and technologies used. This study aims to reveal the differences and similarities in technology integration into craft practices, based on the cultural and local dynamics of the geographies in question, with the help of examining a selection of practise-based projects. Derived from the findings of this particular study, there are differences in policy-making, support and funding opportunities, and the relationship of crafts with innovation which affect the integration of digital technologies. These findings will lead to further research focusing on the use of technology to achieve the potential of crafts in the context of contemporary design.