Lets explore 3D Printing for the Fashion Designer

When people think of 3D printing they generally tend to think of its industrial applications. It is easy to forget that there are a number of creative avenues and 3D printing for the fashion designer is something with a lot of potential uses.

A Full Range – 3D Printing for the Fashion Designer

While 3D printing is often known for creating initial prototypes the great thing about 3D printing for the fashion designer is that you can use computer aided design to create something precisely to your specifications. For example companies such as Hot Pop Factory are using 3D printing to produce jewellery while New Balance are one of a number of designers creating 3D printed footwear. The major benefit is the precision of the process- you can adjust the design specifically for different shapes and sizes. It also allows for intricate details- a recent piece for burlesque artist Dita Von Teese consisted of 2500 intersecting joint pieces.

Keeping up

The fashion industry moves fast and so too does the technology. One of the most recent developments is a material specifically designed for use in the fashion industry known as TPU-92A-1. This material is cushioning, elastic and lightweight, making it easier for designers to work with rather than having to make compromises with less suitable material.

Exclusive…

for now Of course some people may argue that this printing may mean everyone will be printing their own clothes in future. At the moment this is some way off in terms of the cost of printers and materials. However as the technology becomes more widely available hopefully more people who aspire to work in fashion will be able to showcase their talents using specially crafted 3d printing for the fashion designer.