The communities and materials of repair: collectively reflecting on repair practices of everyday artefacts

Abstract

This study delves into the repair, exploring how materials, tools, and collaborative efforts shape the repair of everyday artefacts. Drawing on autoethnography and observations the research examines the lived experiences of two practice-based design researchers and their participants in various repair workshops conducted between January 2023 and May 2024. Through a combination of individual repairs and community workshops, this study emphasises that autoethnography can generate deep insights into the motivations and challenges of repair, highlighting the importance of reflective conversations in building a shared understanding for design research teams. The findings highlight the significant role of material engagement in the repair process, revealing how materials guide the making and how social interactions contribute to the repair outcomes. The research underscores the potential of repair as a social practice that fosters sustainable consumption, community bonding, and creative exploration. By reflecting on the researchers’ experiences and the insights gained from workshop participants, the study offers a nuanced understanding of repair as a multifaceted practice that intertwines materiality, creativity, and community engagement. This study contributes to the broader discourse on circular design strategies and emphasises the need for tailored design research methods that address environmental and social challenges.

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