Abstract
While 3D knitting is proposed as part of a solution to the fashion industry's waste problem, circular knitting is primarily used in wasteful cut-and-sew manufacturing processes and is rarely explored for its shaping potential. Using material-driven design, this research investigates the dimensional and material properties of knit stitch patterns within defined rectangular artworks, enabling the shaping of circular knitted textiles for zero-waste design. To exemplify this approach, we developed a design method that addresses several aspects of the shaping process, highlighting the possibilities for zero-waste shaping and exploring potential applications. Finally, we discuss the implications, limitations, and opportunities of shape-change circular knitting for the future of sustainable textile design and manufacturing.
Keywords
Jacquard Circular Knitting; Digital Fabrication; Material-Driven Design; Zero-Waste Fashion Design
DOI
10.21606/TI-2026.105
Citation
Janssen, S.,and McQuillan, H.(2026) Shaped Circular Knitting for Zero Waste Design: A Material-Driven Approach To Knitted Textile-Forms, in Jane Scott, Sophie Skach, and Rebecca Stewart (eds.), Textile Intersections 2026, 17-18 September 2026, London, United Kingdom. https://doi.org/10.21606/TI-2026.105
Conference Track
researchpapers
Included in
Shaped Circular Knitting for Zero Waste Design: A Material-Driven Approach To Knitted Textile-Forms
While 3D knitting is proposed as part of a solution to the fashion industry's waste problem, circular knitting is primarily used in wasteful cut-and-sew manufacturing processes and is rarely explored for its shaping potential. Using material-driven design, this research investigates the dimensional and material properties of knit stitch patterns within defined rectangular artworks, enabling the shaping of circular knitted textiles for zero-waste design. To exemplify this approach, we developed a design method that addresses several aspects of the shaping process, highlighting the possibilities for zero-waste shaping and exploring potential applications. Finally, we discuss the implications, limitations, and opportunities of shape-change circular knitting for the future of sustainable textile design and manufacturing.