Abstract

My research project is led by an ethnographic approach, where I explore making and the maker movement in Sweden as a cultural phenomenon. I am predominantly interested in practice and the role of the technology, as well as the materials and machines in maker settings. The decision of turning towards practice was made to move from abstract descriptions about the maker movement, towards a more hands-on approach by investigating activities, relations and maker practice directly at site.

Research activities resulted in concepts of material literacy, printability and alignment (in 3D printing) and machine sensibility to make sense of the situated interplay between the human (e.g. the maker) and their machines / materials. The thesis builds theoretically upon the material turn and material perspectives in interaction design and contributes with empirical work as showcased in the studies and resulting papers. Additionally it positions and provides historical context of the subcultures meaning and supposed impact.