craftforward

CraftForward is an open-source framework and community platform designed to support planning, execution, and documentation of craft-based projects across disciplines such as woodworking, textiles, ceramics, metalworking, and electronics. It provides a shared data model for project definitions, materials, tools, workflows, and risk assessments, enabling makers to track progress and provenance from concept to completion. The project is maintained by a loose consortium of volunteers and hobbyist groups, with releases governed by a permissive license.

Origin and development: The project began in 2018 as an initiative to standardize project data across craft communities, combining elements of project management tools with digital fabrication workflows. It is hosted on a collaborative repository and welcomes contributions from developers, educators, and makers.

Features: CraftForward offers a modular plugin system, allowing adapters to CAM software, 3D printers, laser cutters, and embroidery machines. It supports YAML-based project definitions, versioned notes, bill of materials, supplier links, and material provenance tracking. The platform also includes a public gallery for sharing project templates, tutorials, and community reviews.

Usage: The framework is adopted by makerspaces, community workshops, and small studios to organize projects, share best practices, and export cutting files and build instructions. It emphasizes interoperability with commonly used tools and file formats.

Reception and status: CraftForward has been recognized for improving collaboration and reproducibility in craft projects, though some users note a learning curve for new users and the need for ongoing governance to manage plugins and licenses. As of 2024, the project remains active with periodic updates and community-driven governance.