Evolutionary approach of a textile designer through cross-disciplinary research practice: A case study in the field of advanced methods for joining textiles

This paper will discuss the evolving methodological approach of Helen Paine who has a background in knitted textiles for fashion and completed her cross-disciplinary PhD at RCA in 2016. The PhD was sponsored by TWI: an engineering institution that specialise in materials joining and partnered with Speedo International to develop capability in the field of advanced methods for joining textiles. A multi-strategy framework that encompassed both craft-design and scientific methods was applied by the research to investigate new opportunities for ultrasonic and laser welding technologies. Specific insights relating to how and when either a craft-design or scientific approach was applied throughout the research trajectory will be discussed with the aim of contributing to an emerging methodology for textile-designers engaging in cross-disciplinary research practice.