This practice-based research study explores possible roles for digital technologies in
the contextually-located practice of Fair-Isle knitting in Shetland. The purpose of
this research is to evaluate a provotyping approach in a traditional craft context to
enable knitwear practitioners to reflect upon innovation in their own
work. Furthermore, I will be exploring how the Product Design Engineering practice
(PDE) can be harnessed methodologically for creative engagement.

This project follows an action research methodological approach and was
conducted partially site-based in Shetland. The initial data was collected through a
scoping trip to Shetland during which I interviewed a range of knitting experts to
gain insights into the traditional nature of Fair Isle knitting. The process
was evidenced through audio/visual data and thematically analysed. Based on the
analysis of this engagement I developed three digital engagement tools
(provotypes) that challenged the traditional design process in Fair Isle knitting.
During the evaluation and dissemination stage these provotypes were brought back
into the context in Shetland for participants to explore innovation in their own work
and imagine future design approaches in Fair Isle knitting.

The findings of this study showed how provotypes can support reflective dialogues
for craft practitioners to develop new perspectives on their own practice and
showed a situational value of provotypes, in particularly as narrative tools that
enabled the dissemination of research insights to a wider audience.
This research intends to provide an account of using technical artefacts early on in
the research process. Contrary to similar studies that have been taken place in the
fields of interaction design, this study explores the approach of provotyping in a
traditional craft context. This might be of relevance to PDE practitioners interested
in the methodological account but also to researchers and craft practitioners
interested in the role of innovation in a traditional craft practice.