Digital earth-fibre craft inspired by traditional basketry.

This article investigates the integration of traditional basketry techniques with digital fabrication by developing 3D-printable natural earth-fibre composites inspired by ancient weaving protocols. Using clay-rich soils combined with high contents of plant fibres such as wheat straw, hemp, banana, and kenaf, the study formulates sustainable, low-carbon paste materials optimized for extrusion and buildability in additive manufacturing. Computational models of basketry-inspired wall profiles—vertical, convex, and concave—were tested to evaluate structural stability and texture resolution, revealing that fibre type and geometry significantly influence print quality and mechanical performance. The research demonstrates how digital tools can reinterpret ecological craft traditions to create novel architectural artefacts and proposes future directions for scaling these materials and methods toward sustainable construction. Exhibited internationally, the work highlights the potential of combining natural materials with digital design to foster environmentally responsible and culturally informed architectural practices.