Craft Survey and Documentation Notes
Subject Overview
Craft Survey and Documentation exposes students to real craft communities and teaches effective information gathering and documentation — a 10-working-day field project studying a chosen textile craft area in detail. Students study the technologies, present status, consumer choice, marketing channels, and the role of the textile designer in uplifting the craft, producing a detailed documentation of process, implements and materials used. This is a 2-credit core practical paper.
Subject at a glance
2
Units
7
Topics
2
Credits
2
Infographics
Unit-wise Syllabus
2 units — click WhatsApp below to get the full notes for each
Unit 1: Craft area study
- Selecting and visiting a craft area
- studying the textile craft and handicraft technologies as well as the present status of the craft
- the role of the textile designer to uplift the craft
- 1
Choose a craft cluster
- 2
Background research
History, region, artisans
- 3
Prepare questionnaires and consent
- 4
Visit and observe
10 working days
- 5
Interview artisans, traders and buyers
- 6
Photograph each process step
Study guide
This unit has you select and visit a craft area, study the craft and handicraft technology, its present status and the textile designer's role in uplifting the craft. Prepare questions for artisans before you visit.
Unit 2: Documentation
- Studying consumer choice and marketing channels/outlets
- detailed documentation of the process
- implements and materials used
- over a 10-working-day field period
Process
Every step, in order
Tools and materials
Names, sources, costs
Products
Designs, motifs, colours
Market
Channels, prices, buyers
Challenges and ideas
Where a designer can help
Study guide
You study consumer choice and marketing channels and document the process, implements and materials in detail over a 10-working-day field period. Use photographs, sketches and notes to build a thorough record.
Why Craft Survey and Documentation Matters
Field documentation develops research skills and connects design education to real communities of craftspeople, a common focus in design and development careers.
How to Prepare for Craft Survey and Documentation
- Plan the survey and prepare a questionnaire in advance.
- Record each stage of the process with photographs and notes.
- Treat artisans respectfully and credit their knowledge.
Craft Survey and Documentation: Frequently Asked Questions
What is a craft survey?
A craft survey is a field study of a craft cluster to document its techniques, materials, people and markets.