Toolkits & Wearables: Developing Toolkits for Exploring Wearable Designs

Designing wearables is a complex task that includes many layers, such as wearability, interactivity, functionality, social and cultural considerations. For decades now, prototyping toolkits are proposed to aid diverse types of audiences in exploring the design of smart accessories and garments. However, the task of designing toolkits for wearables has not received a comprehensive discussion and systematic reflection. In this workshop, we look into challenges, opportunities, and lessons learned in using, developing and evaluating wearable toolkits by focusing on their target groups, purposes, effects on the final designs. By bringing together researchers and practitioners who are experienced with the design, use and assessment of wearable toolkits, we see a particular opportunity in providing a broader perspective on defining the future of wearable toolkit designs.