WeaveWorks
A platform that blends traditional designs with modern users, allowing them to customize everyday products through 3D visualization and direct communication with artisans.
An iOS application featuring a 3D visualization tool for merging products with traditional craft styles.
PROJECT TYPE
Passion Project for Social Impact
TIMELINE
4 Months (August - November 2023)
TEAM
Solo
MY ROLE
Design & Research
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Need Finding, On-site research, Interviews, Workshops with artisans, Market Analysis
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Idea conceptualization, Prototyping, Visual Design, Exhibition Design
Development:
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Differential Image Parametization using Neural Network
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XCode (Swift)
Visiting 12 craft villages across Kashmir for research
From a young age, I had the privilege of shadowing my mother, the Chief Designer of Handicrafts in Kashmir, exploring the intricate world of Pashmina shawls and Papier Mâché craftsmanship.
Talking to over 40 artisans, 5 Kashmiri craft designers and local government officials
After two months of interviews, on-ground and secondary research, I identified the two primary challenges facing the industry:
Awareness and Accessibility
Products they make are not relevant or not seen by modern user
Margins
Middlemen involvement cuts heavily into artisan profits
$240 Billion
Market for home-furnished goods in USA alone
350k
Registered Artisans only in Kashmir
With 3 pivots, 4 critique presentations, and 91 intense days of design and development, I created:
your vision, our craftsmanship
Overview of the design process
My creative process involved rapidly prototyping ideas, gathering feedback, and making continuous improvements, facilitating clearer communication, and acquiring valuable feedback and insights. (click to zoom in)
Part 1: Designing for Artisans
The artisan side of WeaveWorks is an app tailored to their needs, with a strong focus on accessibility.
Meet Hasan! A local artisans looking to create his own online identity
Key Features
Part 2: Designing for Customers
WeaveWorks' customer interface is a customizable 3D platform, allowing users to visualize traditional styles on modern products and tailor them to their preferences.
Meet John! A homeowner looking for a dresser that truly captures his essence.
STEP 1
- Browse through the catalog & choose a product
01.
Extensive catalog of traditionally crafted products.
02.
Simplified search and filtering for your ideal product.
STEP 2
- Visually customize your product in the 3D playground
01.
Explore the unique works and stories of diverse artisans.
02.
Customize your product with patterns, applying them globally or to specific areas for a personalized effect.
Key Features & Technologies:
01.
Differential Image Parametrization using Neural network
02.
App built in XCode (Swift)
STEP 3
Elevate customization and authenticity by connecting directly with the artisan
01.
Further customize the product by directly talking to an artisan.
02.
Supported by Whisper AI & video chat with live transcriptions for easier communication.
Exhibition Design and Pitch
This presentation was delivered to prominent design leaders from the Bay Area and 80 UC Berkeley graduate students. Additionally, the project gained recognition by being featured in Jacob's showcase, attracting over 150 visitors.