3D printing results in the creation of a solid object from a
digital file. While most fashion results from the subtractive method of
cutting the necessary components out of a piece of fabric, 3D clothing produces
a complex shape using an additive process.
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| Harmonograph - threeASFOUR Photo: Matt Carsella |
After becoming curious about 3D printing, Gabi Asfour began attempting to manipulate the internal geometry of textiles. He, Angela Donhauser,
and Adi Gil had a vision to create “three-dimensional interlocking weaves,”
which would be achieved with the help of laser cutting. Collaborating with
3D printing company Stratasys and architect Travis Fitch for the Fall 2016
Biomimicry collection, Pangolin was born. This dress was a result of 500 hours
of printing using 10 printers at the same time. Pangolin’s scales of
interlocking weave were developed using an algorithm which simulates cell
division.
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| Pangolin - threeASFOUR Photo: SCHOHAJA |
While still in its infancy, fashion has already begun making
use of this process for the future of not only clothing but the accessories
we wear with them. The newest invisible shoe provides a nude view of the foot
within its geometric structural design.
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| Invisible Shoe Photo: Andreia Chaves Gallery |
The first affordable design using 3D printing originating with Continuum Fashion in collaboration with Shapeways is the N12 or the world’s
first 3D-printed bikini, created by designers Jenna Fizel and Mary Haung. The
bikini is constructed of thousands of circular plates connected by thin springs
to allow it to maintain its form while still being flexible. Working with the
third dimension of the fabric led them to 3D printing.
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| N12 - 3D Printed Bikini Continuum Fashion and Shapeways Photo: Ariel Efron |
Ruth E. Carter won an Oscar for Best Costume Design after
working with printing wearable specialist, Julia Koerner and Materialise to help with 3D printing to create the mantel and crown worn by Queen Ramonda. Queen
Ramonda in Black Panther, was played by Julia Bassett.
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| Queen Ramonda Photo: via Marvel's Black Panther Costume Design by Ruth Carter |
While many of us have used traditional methods of sewing
throughout the years to create our own personal fashion statements, Danit Peleg,
as part of a graduate program at Shenkar, created a 5-piece fashion collection
using flexible patterns and soft materials which were printed at home. Danit provides
users with the ability to design their own 3D printed bomber jacket, made to
measure with your own customization. This offer is a limited edition.
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| Photo: Danit Peleg Collections 'Liberty Leading the People' |
Is 3D printing in your future?
What would be the first item
on your list to print?
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