Algorithmic Knitting Design focuses on handknitting patterns for apparel, accessories and homeware that integrate algorithmic computation and digital aesthetics.
With these designs, the project strives to offer a contemporary approach to the age-old and timeless craft of knitting. The patterns developed here mainly implement standard, even basic techniques, but challenge the knitter with large, complex and non-repeating patterns. As knitters and crafters, it’s interesting to re-consider and re-contextualize our own craft and unique skill sets. This project presents knitting as a form of applied science and mathematics, and takes advantage of your wonderful skills as a knitter, whether a beginner, intermediate, or master knitter. <3
Algorithmic Knitting Design taps into the complex pattern reading abilities and different techniques of us knitters and highlights the parallels between our knitting language and computer programming language. The aim is to create contemporary knitting designs which reflect digital aesthetics and balance complexity with executability.
TEAM
Stephanie Pan
Hi! I’m Stephanie, a designer, interdisciplinary artist, and fanatic knitter, based in The Hague, the Netherlands. I design, knit and write the patterns published here. Algorithmic Knitting Design brings together my deep love for handknitting and handicrafts, histories in clothing design and applied mathematics, and connection with new media artists in algorithmic design and thinking. Aesthetically I am inspired by digital aesthetics and minimalist fashion design, focusing on form, shape and drape, as opposed to traditional apparel shaping.
Stelios Manousakis, PhD
Stelios is an artist, researcher and programmer. He works alongside Stephanie developing the current patterns, based on cellular automata. He is also creating software for later phases of the project, including developing patterns for lace.
Jan Trützschler von Falkenstein, PhD
Jan is a composer, developer and budding knitter. Jan is writing software so that Stephanie can design and develop patterns independently in the future.
WeiHaw Wang
WeiHaw is an architect (and budding knitter, thanks to this project!!) working with parametric design and algorithmic computing. Together with Stephanie he is developing software to eventually be able to generate cable patterns based on algorithmic computing.
Stichting Modulus / Modulus Foundation
This project is made possible with the generous support of Stimuleringsfonds / Creative Industries Fund NL