EXERCISE2

Exercise 2

Select an object whose construction or form or material/textile intrigues you. Can you break
down the life cycle and story behind the object? You might be able to determine what its
components are made from. You may be able to research further to find out where the raw
materials originate from. What processes has it undergone in its construction? Are there any
clues to its make- up, creator, production or origins? How might you research this further? Do
you believe it might be possible to improve on the materials, design or form of the object to
make it more sustainable? Why and how? Analyse how well you feel the product functions or
works in its intended context. Perhaps you can research other makers or producers of the same
type of product to determine what other materials are being employed.
Project 1 has considered industrial manufacturing processes. Project 2 shifts to the other end of
the spectrum and examines making and craftsmanship in textile production.

What really excites me is the Flyknit technology: a technology that creates knitted shoe uppers with many benefits and features.

Here is how the magic happens:

Before Flyknit technology arrived on the scene, uppers were usually all made the same way: using various materials stitched together. This method created large amounts of waste due to excess material and limited how the sneaks could be used.

With Flyknit technology, Nike initially but to be followed by other companies, created a seamless upper that could be built to size – reducing waste by around 60% – while also allowing the upper to be micro-engineered to suit the needs of different silhouettes. Essentially, Nike began knitting in the necessary structure and support.

Nike remains tight-lipped about the exact construction of Flyknit, but what we do know is that yarns and fabric variations are precisely engineered only where they’re needed. Then used to create a featherweight, form-fitting and virtually seamless upper.

Flyknit was finally unveiled to the world when it dropped in 2012 on the Flyknit Racer: a featherweight running silhouette, using the innovative upper to provide a form-fitting and durable wear.  Nike’s first use for Flyknit tech being on a sneaker designed for marathons showed that durability and support with a knitted upper was no longer a problem.

Since Flyknit arrived in 2012, it’s not only become an essential part of many sports silhouettes, but also a standout look on the streets.