10. Textile Scaffold

Textile Scaffolding: An Introduction

Textile scaffolding refers to the use of textile materials as a foundational structure or mold for creating complex forms, structures, or composites. This process involves the use of fabrics, fibers, and other flexible textiles as a scaffold or formwork, onto which various casting materials, resins, or composites are applied to build a final object. The concept behind textile scaffolding is based on the idea that textiles, due to their flexibility, lightweight nature, and ability to adapt to different shapes, can serve as a versatile base material for many innovative fabrication processes. Textile scaffolding is part of a broader trend in modern design and fabrication, where digital fabrication techniques such as 3D printing, laser cutting, and CNC machining are used alongside traditional techniques to create intricate, often organic forms that are otherwise difficult to achieve using conventional materials. The ability to manipulate and transform textiles into structured forms creates unique opportunities for artistic and functional design, particularly in fields like architecture, sculpture, and fashion.

References and Resources

Fabric Formwork with Casting:

Lin, Chia-Ming. "Exploring Fabric Formwork for Architectural and Structural Applications."

International Journal of Structural Engineering and Construction – An article discussing the benefits and challenges of fabric formwork in construction, with case studies.

Fabric Formwork 2.0 (Shuangying Xu, Yuxin Qiu)

PDF

Leather Molding:

Scarlett Lee

Scarlett Lee

Sadieseasongoods

adieseasongoods Houseplants and all forms of botanical decor are about as trendy as they’ve ever been.

Types of Textile Scaffolding

There are several variations of textile scaffolding that are commonly explored in design and production. Each type offers different properties and opportunities depending on the final application. Some of the most well-known types of textile scaffolding include:

Fabric Formwork with Casting

This involves using fabric as a mold to shape casting materials such as plaster, concrete, or resins. The fabric acts as a flexible scaffold that adapts to the contours of the mold, allowing for organic, free-flowing shapes to be formed. This process is often used in architectural applications to create curvilinear concrete structures or sculptural elements.

Crystallization

Crystallization involves using textiles to shape the formation of crystals, often with materials like salt or sugar. The textile acts as a scaffold for the crystal growth, which results in the textile structure being coated or transformed by the crystal formations.

Resin and Bioresin-Textile Composites

Similar to wood-textile composites, this method uses textiles as the base material, which is impregnated with resin or bioresin to create a durable composite. This technique is used to create flexible and strong materials for applications in furniture design, fashion, and architecture.

Leather Molding

Leather molding uses textile scaffolds in combination with leather to create structured forms. Leather is stretched over a textile scaffold and then molded into different shapes through various techniques, such as wetting or heat-forming.

Key Benefits of Textile Scaffolding

Flexibility:

The primary advantage of textile scaffolding is the ability to create flexible and organic shapes that are difficult to achieve with rigid materials. The textile can easily adapt to contours and curves, making it ideal for creating complex forms.

Lightweight:

Textiles are much lighter than traditional materials like metals or plastics, making textile scaffolding ideal for lightweight structures or temporary forms.

Sustainability:

Many textiles used in scaffolding can be recycled, and with the increasing use of bio-based resins and fabrics, the process can be highly sustainable. This is particularly important in the context of eco-design and sustainable material usage.

Precision:

Digital fabrication technologies like 3D modeling and CNC machining can be used in conjunction with textile scaffolding to achieve precise shapes and structures. This allows for the design o

Cost-Effectiveness:

Textile scaffolds are often more cost-effective than traditional methods like wood or metal scaffolding, as fabrics are generally less expensive and easier to work with.

If I were to do it again, I’d probably add a handle or maybe slots for labels to identify tool categories. But overall, I’m happy with how it turned out!

Designing in SolidWorks

I started with SolidWorks, my favorite CAD tool. Since I never minded taking recording the processes of the molds i have been working on , I first made a mistake feeling comfortable with aplaoding the assignment i was not supposed to update only because I was there throught the whole process, but again i since i had to work with the machine and have it documented. i designed a box first in the solind work that was going to serve any box purpose in the workshop either a good place to place small tools or any other purporse.

Preparing the files in v-carve

Once I had exported out my DXF profiles from SolidWorks, I headed into VCarve and set the files up to cut on the ShopBot machine. I brought it into VCarve and used the layout features for toolpath setup, specifying depths and tool diameters, making sure I was getting nice clean edges without the overcut.

from V-Carve Here is the process I used to create a toolpath for machining.

I chose MDF for the material because it's easy to cut and ideal for rapid prototyping. Before sending it to the ShopBot, I nested every part in the VCarve program to maximize material utilization.

### Toolpath Setup

At this stage, I defined how the machine behaves while printing by interacting with the toolpath operations. This involves selecting the cutting behavior and the tool to use. Below are the key parameters I configured:

-Cut Depth Defines how deep the tool will cut into the material per pass.

-Tool Specifies the cutter type, size, and its settings. Choosing the right tool ensures clean and efficient cuts.

-Machine Vector Determines the toolpath direction—whether the tool moves inside, outside, or on the line of the shape. This affects the final dimensions of the cut parts.

-Ramp Plunge Moves Enables the tool to enter the material gradually (rather than plunging straight down), which reduces tool stress and material damage.

-Tabs Small uncut sections that hold the part in place during cutting, preventing it from moving or shifting until the job is complete.

Using the ShopBot for 5-axis machining

It was thrilling to use the ShopBot CNC! I gained knowledge about setting the spindle speed, zeroing the axis, and monitoring the cutting operation. To keep pieces in position and stop kickbacks, I employed tabs in the VCarve toolpath.

This video shows the work piece's pathways being cut.

Here is the outcome of the final box

ALUM CRYSTALISATION

Inspiration

This comprehensive guide provides step-by-step instructions for creating clear, faceted alum crystals on silk substrates. The technique utilizes a saturated alum solution and a bain-marie setup to facilitate slow cooling, resulting in larger crystal formations. The tutorial also explores variations, including the addition of colorants, using different textiles, and post-processing methods like baking to alter the crystals' appearance. credit goes to Loes Bogers here you can see her documentation

Loes Bogers

Process

For crystallization, I used 40 grams of alum in 250 milliliters of warm water. As the solution cools, crystals will begin to form, creating clear and beautiful structures

After preparing the solution, I let it sit undisturbed. After 3 days, the crystals started growing, forming clear and beautiful structures as the water slowly cooled and evaporated.

Result

MOLDING USING PAPER LEFTOVERS IN A CUBOID SHAPE

Again I started by designing a mold with a cylindrical shape. I chose this form for its simplicity and practicality, allowing me to explore how papers adapts to flat, angular surfaces. I carefully calculated the dimensions to ensure the mold had sufficient depth for a defined and precise shape.

Step Description

The process of creating a sustainable, flexible material from recycled paper involves several steps, from collecting waste paper to molding the final product. Below is a detailed breakdown of each stage:

1. Gathering Raw Materials

To begin, collect various types of discarded paper, such as newspaper, office paper, or cardboard. Ensure the materials are free from plastic coatings or glossy finishes, as these can interfere with the process.

1. Preparing the Pulp

Tear the collected paper into small pieces and submerge them in a container filled with water. Allow the pieces to soak for several hours or overnight to break down the fibers. Once softened, use a blender or mechanical mixer to process the soaked paper into a smooth, thick pulp.

1. Incorporating Binding Agents

To enhance durability and flexibility, introduce a natural adhesive such as gelatin or starch. Additionally, adding a small quantity of glycerin will help create a more pliable texture. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure even distribution of these additives.

1. Shaping and Pressing

Once the pulp is ready, spread it evenly over the surface or pour it into molds, depending on the desired end product. Apply firm pressure to remove excess water while simultaneously shaping the material. A rolling pin or pressing tool can be used to achieve uniform thickness.

1. Drying and Treating

Place the shaped material in a well-ventilated area to air dry completely. If needed, press the material periodically to maintain its structure and prevent warping. For added resilience and a leather-like feel, treat the surface with natural oils or waxes.

1. Final Molding and Refinement

After drying, the material can be further shaped by hand or with specialized molds to achieve the desired form. Additional treatments, such as sanding or coating with protective substances, can be applied to improve texture and longevity.

After 48 hours, I was able to successfully remove the mold I created from repurposed paper waste. The process was a mix of trial and excitement, as I wasn't entirely sure how the material would perform. In the end, the mold turned out to be sturdy and well-formed, proving the potential of using discarded paper as a sustainable material for molding. This marks a significant step forward in my project, as it validates the concept of repurposing waste for functional design solutions.

Result

Fabric Formwork with Casting

This concept explores how textiles can be used as flexible molds in casting, allowing for organic shapes and detailed surface textures in material fabrication.

Inspiration

An article by The Architectural League of New York highlights the innovative use of textile formwork in concrete casting. It showcases cutting-edge techniques and emphasizes its potential to transform architectural design and contribute to sustainable construction practices.

REFERENCES

Fabric Formwork Design for Manufacture programme, The Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL, 2017

Fabric Forms

PDF

FABRIC Concrete Formwork DIVA PDF

MATERIALS

Fabric Base

Acts as the mold for casting; its flexibility allows it to shape the cast and define the surface texture.

• Yarns Used to add structure, texture, or interactive elements within the casting.

• Casting Material This is the substance that solidifies, capturing the shape and fine details defined by the fabric and yarns.

• Frame Structure Supports the fabric by holding it in place, ensuring proper tension and achieving the desired geometry.

• Fastening Tools Used to secure the fabric and yarns during the setup and throughout the casting process.

Process and workflow

Step 1: Build a Frame Construct a simple frame that will serve as the structure to stretch and support the fabric.

Step 2: Attach Fabric(woven cap) Tightly pull the fabric over or around the frame to create a smooth, stable surface.

Step 3: Wrap or Stitch Yarns Apply yarns by wrapping or stitching to introduce structure, texture, or design elements.

Step 4: Pour Casting Material Carefully pour plaster, concrete, or another casting material over the fabric surface. Step 5: Let Cure Allow the material to fully harden and cure, maintaining the shape defined by the fabric and yarn.

Step 6: Remove Detach the frame and either peel away the fabric or leave it embedded as part of the final piece.

RESULT

FABRICATION FILES

Mold slt file

Front part

Side part

Bottom part