Digital Crafts

This book showcases ground-breaking methods and techniques that have been adapted from industry and are now being applied by designer-makers. To the uninitiated, these technologies may seem complex, but this book explains simply and clearly how they have developed, how they work, and their application. Packed full with case studies of artists using these processes, this book demonstrates that outstanding work is possible with the right equipment and know-how, and argues that designer makers have the mindset, skills and knowledge to creatively engage with these industrial technologies.

The technologies covered include 2D and 3D digital designing and modelling (including CAD and processing), 3D printing (additive manufacture), reverse engineering (scanning and digitising), CNC machining, laser and waterjet cutting. Featuring a breathtaking selection of work by contemporary makers - many of them early adopters of these technologies – this book illustrate the exciting potential of these tools to add value to the maker's practice, as well as inspiring and extending their range of work.

About the Author

Ann Marie Shillito is a jeweller and the CEO of Anarkik3D Ltd, one of a group of specialist companies currently involved in bringing haptics (virtual touch) technology into the mainstream marketplace. Her work is specifically focused on developing software that will make these new technologies accessible and usable for designer-makers around the world. From 1999-2006 she was a Research Fellow at Edinburgh College of Art. She has received numerous awards and grants for various research projects and her jewellery has been widely exhibited.