Empowering designer-artisan partnership through capability-based co-design

To bridge capability gaps between designers and artisans that hinder fashion and textile business collaboration and social innovation effects, this study explores how capability-based co-design fosters sustainable partnerships. Based on 20 case studies in China’s textile sector, it connects craft values, product features, and capability-based interactions. The model links this approach to make co-design practical amid skill gaps and enhance social innovation. It offers actionable strategies for balancing co-design methods in skill asymmetric partnerships in cultural and creative industries.