~ When people ask, ‘Is that wearable?’ It makes me happy because it means it’s interesting to them. ~ Issey Miyake 5
Abstract:
This dissertation explores themes that can potentially improve environmental issues present in the knitwear industry. I have chosen to study the prospect of visible mending on fabric during the knitting itself than on worn-out garments, to prevent fabric wastage before it even hits the market. This is done through studying concepts related to how mending can be used as a tool by designers who knit the fabric themselves, and people in the industry who ‘correct’ the garments before they are shipped to the respective companies.
On that note, this paper does not quite provide concrete solutions to the various problems regarding the current state of waste in said industry, because it is outside the domain of possibility for a project that aims to tackle this issue on a scale of such large magnitude. But on a micro-level, I use analysis of my progress (in visible mending) through reflective writing that shuttles back and forth between failure, sustainability and finding oneself. I find links between relevant subcultures, designers, waste and semiotics and gauge their connections (both positive and negative) with wabi-sabi. Roland Barthes’s work has had a preponderant influence on almost every aspect branching out from the main theme of my dissertation.
This paper sets the stage for the next plan of action i.e, questioning people who have various interests, on their idea of what ‘acceptable fabric’ is - which consequently helps me learn their likes and dislikes.
I hope that in addition, it would give me tactile solutions to work with for the rest of my Master’s Degree.
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5
5
Koren, New Fashion Japan, p.110.
