Tales from the backstage of craft making: Surfacing invisible work for textile craft innovation
By Rune Thorbjørn Clausen & Simon Peter Larsen. VIA University College If one pays a visit to our design school’s craft labs, one will, among others, find a unique infrastructure consisting of multiple workstations for embroidery, weaving, dyeing, finishing, and digital printing. The labs house both analogue and advanced digital textile technologies, including circular and […]
How receptive are craftspeople and designers to adopting digital innovation for sustainability?
By Aura Mihai, Raluca Lupu, Antonela Curteza, Dorin Ionesi, Radu Firicel and Iuliana StrebaGheorghe Asachi Technical University of Iasi Introduction The ISO/ASTM 52900:2021 standard defines 3D printing as a layer-by-layer process that constructs objects directly from 3D model data, distinguishing it fundamentally from traditional subtractive and formative manufacturing methods. 3D printing has emerged as a […]
New business models and pathways for sustainable fashion in the digital era
By Annu Markkula, Hannamaija Tuovila & Päivi Petänen. VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Digitalisation is a key component of the EU’s green transition. When we talk about sustainable fashion, what role can digitalisation play in this industry to enhance its sustainability? As digital tools and solutions become more widely adopted in the fashion sector, […]
Triple transition in the creative economy: how up- and re-skilling is shaping emerging professions
By Herman Bashiron Mendolicchio, ECBN & Maria Cristina Ortega and Arkaitz Celaá Angulo, 3Walks The conversation around skills in the craft and fashion sectors has evolved significantly in recent years. What began as a call to integrate green, digital, and socially engaged competencies into creative practice is now shaping something much deeper: the emergence of […]
Bright Ideas: Sustainable LED Tech for Fashion and Performance
By Tommi Karjalainen and Joonas Leinonen. Oulu University of Applied Sciences In recent years, LED technology has moved beyond conventional lighting into the realm of fashion and performance. As LEDs become more affordable, energy-efficient, and adaptable, they offer exciting possibilities for small businesses and creatives working in textiles, wearable tech, and the performing arts. This […]
Optimizing your sustainable business model by using data analytics: a short guide for SMEs.
By Juliana Penagos Nigrinis, Lidia Morcillo & Clara Solé – MODACC Turning information into impact Across industries, many companies are proving that data can be a powerful tool for sustainability. By using data strategically, businesses are optimising their resources, reducing waste, and aligning profitability with environmental responsibility. Take, for example, fashion SMEs that use predictive […]
From Tradition to Innovation by Integrating 3D Printing and Sustainable Craft Development
By Reginnova NE Integrate 3D Printing technologies in TCLF sectors using Expert Advice Introduction The TCLF industries are a pillar of the European economy, and crucial from a strategic as well as from a cultural standpoint, with over 2,2 million workers employed across Europe in TCLF industries and over 5 million people employed in the […]
ANALYSING THE CLIMATE IMPACTS OF SME FASHION BUSINESS MODELS
By Silvia Forin, Eveliina Hylkilä, Annu Markkula, Essi Paronen & Hanna Pihkola. VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Innovation, circularity and sustainability Are innovative business models always more sustainable than traditional ones? Not necessarily. Ride-hailing platforms like Uber, for example, though representing a business innovation, increase traffic congestion and emissions in urban areas, encourage car […]
Bridging the skills gap: preparing artists and makers for a sustainable, inclusive, and digital future
By Herman Bashiron Mendolicchio, María Cristina Ortega & Arkaitz Celaá. ECBN and 3Walks The cultural and creative industries (CCIs) are increasingly recognized as key actors in Europe’s green, digital, and social transitions. Yet, while the demand for new competencies is rapidly growing, a persistent skills gap continues to challenge the sector. Many artists, craftspeople, and […]
Brewing Creativity: Coffee’s role in Fashion and Textile Sustainability
By Katarina Rauhala, Liisa Ronkainen and Outi Räsänen. Oulu University of Applied Sciences In a world increasingly focused on sustainability and circular design, coffee—one of the most consumed beverages globally —is finding new life beyond the cup. From used coffee packaging to spent grounds, this brown bean is being repurposed in innovative ways across fashion, […]