Bridging the Knitwear Skills Gap Through Workshops
In today’s design climate, the knitwear industry faces a unique challenge. Over the past 30 years, many skills essential to high-quality knitwear production have been lost to offshore manufacturing. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), 70% of garment production has shifted to developing countries with lower labour costs, significantly eroding traditional manufacturing skills in developed nations. This shift, combined with the aging workforce in the textile and apparel industries—the average age of skilled workers is over 50—has resulted in a skills gap that threatens the industry's future.
The educational sector is also part of the problem. Many universities focus on maximising employability, yet many graduates leave with minimal practical skills. A survey by the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) found that 85% of fashion design graduates felt unprepared for the industry's technical demands. This lack of hands-on experience has led to a fundamental lack of knowledge about knitwear development and its possibilities.
One effective way to bridge this gap is through workshops. These workshops offer direct, hands-on experience with knitting machines and other tools, providing essential practical engagement that theoretical learning alone often cannot convey. Participants gain specific skills such as linking, machine programming, and various knitting techniques. These workshops address the gaps left by traditional academic programs, focusing on the practical skills necessary for producing high-quality knitwear.
Led by industry professionals, workshops provide expert guidance that helps participants troubleshoot problems and refine their techniques. This expert input accelerates the learning process and ensures participants acquire industry-relevant skills. By engaging directly with technology and materials, workshops encourage experimentation and innovation, allowing participants to explore new designs and techniques. This fosters creativity and pushes the boundaries of knitwear design.
Additionally, workshops bring together individuals from diverse backgrounds and skill levels, facilitating networking and collaboration. This environment promotes the exchange of ideas and can lead to new partnerships and innovative projects. The learning experience is often customised to the specific needs and interests of the participants, ensuring that each receives relevant and useful information suited to their particular context.
Real-world projects and case studies help participants see the direct application of their skills in the industry, bridging the gap between learning and doing and making the transition to professional work smoother. Participants also receive immediate feedback on their work, allowing them to quickly correct mistakes and improve their techniques. This iterative process of practice and feedback is crucial for mastering new skills.
Workshops provide insights into the entire production process, from design to finished product. Understanding this workflow helps participants appreciate the complexities and interdependencies in knitwear manufacturing, leading to more informed design practices. Participants are also exposed to the latest advancements in knitting technology and materials. The global smart textiles market is expected to grow by $4.72 billion from 2021 to 2025, driven by technological advancements. This underscores the need for a workforce skilled in the latest knitting technologies.
The growth of the knitwear market is another promising factor. The knitwear market size was valued at USD 105.45 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach USD 156.80 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 5.83%. This rapid growth highlights the increasing demand for skilled professionals who can leverage new technologies and innovative design techniques to meet market needs.
By integrating these elements, workshops play a vital role in developing the practical skills and industry readiness of participants, contributing to a more skilled and innovative knitwear industry. They not only preserve essential skills but also foster a new generation of designers and technicians ready to innovate and push the boundaries of what’s possible in knitwear.
At Knovus, we believe that offering comprehensive workshops and online learning can bridge the skills gap and ensure that the knowledge and craft of knitwear continue to evolve and thrive in the modern world.
We are excited to announce that we are taking registrations for expressions of interest in our upcoming online learning lab. This initiative will start with courses and gradually expand into a comprehensive learning ecosystem. Register now for early bird discounts and be a part of the future of knitwear education.
References:
- International Labour Organization (ILO). "The future of work in textiles, clothing, leather and footwear." Retrieved from ILO Report
- Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA). "Fashion Education Benchmarking Study." Retrieved from CFDA Report
- Deloitte (2020). "The future of work in manufacturing." Retrieved from Deloitte Insights
- Technavio. "Global Smart Textiles Market 2021-2025." Retrieved from Technavio Report
- Maximize Market Research. "Global Knitwear Market." Retrieved from Maximize Market Research
- Reports and Data. "Knitted Fabric Market." Retrieved from Reports and Data
