u/Useful-Interview2762

I need to develop two design briefs for different project directions before starting my capstone next semester.

Project Direction 1: Circular Knitting Machine

My main idea is to design a circular knitting machine. Knitting is something I really enjoy, but I often don’t have enough time for it. I’m interested in creating a machine that makes knitting more accessible and efficient.

Ideally, I would design an adjustable circular knitting machine that allows users to change the size or gauge. However, I recognise this could be technically complex within a single semester. To manage this risk, I want to frame the project in a way that still succeeds even if the adjustable mechanism isn’t fully resolved.

A possible fallback direction would be designing a portable, travel-friendly circular knitting machine that improves usability, compactness, and ease of transport.

Project Direction 2: Educational Toy

Another idea is to design a toy that teaches children about an industrial design or manufacturing process.

For example, similar to how Play-Doh extrusion toys introduce the concept of extrusion, this project would translate a real-world manufacturing method into an engaging, hands-on learning experience.

Project Direction 3: Felting Craft Kit

My third idea is a toy or craft kit focused on teaching people how to felt wool.

I’m passionate about wool as a material and believe many people don’t fully understand its benefits compared to synthetic fibres. This project would aim to:

Educate users about natural fibres

Encourage hands-on engagement with making

Promote appreciation for material quality and craftsmanship

The broader goal is to help people value better materials by involving them in the creation process.

I'm hung up trying to think of other ideas (even though the first brief is due in a week). I want to pick a project that's worth suffering and putting a ton of effort into. I know that the project I go with could influence my career.

I feel competent at CAD, both hard and surface modelling. I love sewing and using soft materials, as well as woodworking and have access to CNC routers for free. I want my capstone to evidence those skills, so I'm not just trying to convince future employers that I can do these without evidence

I’m a girl in my early 20s and based in New Zealand, and I want to get more into camping/van life. The main thing holding me back is safety and money

For those of you who camp regularly:

What situations have actually made you feel unsafe or uncomfortable while camping? How did you deal with this at the time? Anything you wish existed that would make you feel more secure or comfortable?

I'm an industrial design student with access to workshops, where I can make and modify products. One of my friends is converting her van into a unit she can travel in, and my parents are looking into getting a van so they can travel around once they retire. I want to design something that's actually useful to them.

What useful modifications have you made to your gear (if you have made any)?

What brands do you trust and why?

What's the most fustrating product you've used when travelling?

I'm curious about van-life safety as well. What problems do people not talk about when living the van lifestyle?