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.

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.

Wood-Textile Composites

In this process, natural fibers such as cotton, hemp, or jute are combined with wood and resin to create a composite material. This hybrid material combines the flexibility and texture of textiles with the rigidity and strength of wood, resulting in an eco-friendly alternative to traditional materials.

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 of highly customized forms for specific applications.

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.

Applications of Textile Scaffolding

Textile scaffolding can be used across various disciplines, including:

Architecture:

Fabric formwork is particularly popular in architecture, where it is used to create complex concrete shapes that are lightweight and aesthetically pleasing. Architects like Markus Kayser and Jan Körbes have used textile scaffolds to design and build curvaceous, sculptural concrete structures that would be difficult to achieve using traditional rigid formwork.

Sculpture:

Textile scaffolds are also used in sculpture to create organic, abstract forms. The ability to mold casting materials onto a flexible textile structure allows sculptors to create dynamic, flowing sculptures that would be challenging to achieve with conventional methods.

Fashion:

In fashion design, textiles can be used as scaffolds to create structured garments or accessories, incorporating new materials like bioresins or incorporating composite materials for sustainability.

Industrial Design:

Designers are also exploring the use of textile scaffolding in the development of new composite materials for functional products like furniture or automobile components.

Process of Creating Textile Scaffolds

The process for creating a textile scaffold varies depending on the technique being used, but typically follows a series of steps:

Conceptualization and Design:

Begin by designing the shape and structure of the scaffold. This involves selecting the right textile material and determining the desired final form. Digital tools such as 3D modeling software can be used to create a digital representation of the scaffold before physical production.

Fabrication of the Scaffold:

The textile is shaped into the desired form, often using molds, frames, or other structures to hold the fabric in place. For fabric formwork with casting, the textile is draped over a rigid form or base, and then fixed in place.

Application of Casting Material or Resin:

Once the scaffold is prepared, the casting material or resin is applied. For fabric formwork with casting, plaster or concrete is poured into the fabric mold. For resin composites, the textile is impregnated with resin and pressed into molds to harden.

Curing and Removal:

After the casting or resin process, the material is allowed to cure and harden, after which the textile scaffold is removed. The final piece can then be cleaned and finished as necessary.

For this week’s assignment, I have chosen to explore two innovative textile fabrication techniques: Fabric Formwork with Casting and Leather Molding. Both of these processes offer unique opportunities to blend traditional and modern methods in material creation. Fabric Formwork is a technique that allows for the creation of flexible, organic shapes by using fabric as a mold for casting materials like plaster. This process not only enables the production of lightweight and strong structures but also opens the door for creating intricate forms with a minimalistic approach. On the other hand, Leather Molding is a more traditional method where leather is softened, shaped, and molded into specific forms, creating both functional and decorative items. The flexibility, durability, and aesthetic appeal of leather provide numerous opportunities for creating innovative designs in both the fashion and furniture industries. By investigating the potential of these techniques, I aim to explore their artistic and practical applications, focusing on their ability to create intricate, durable, and eco-friendly designs. Through these processes, I seek to expand my understanding of the intersection between textiles, materials science, and design.

Fabric Formwork with Casting Fabric formwork with casting is an innovative process used in architecture and design. It involves creating molds out of fabric materials that are then filled with a casting medium, such as plaster, concrete, or resin. The fabric serves as a flexible mold that can take on various complex, organic shapes, allowing for intricate textures and unique forms. This technique has been used in architectural design, where the flexibility of fabric enables the creation of complex curves and voids in concrete structures. Notable examples include the work of architect Markus Kayser, who used fabric formwork to create sculptural elements for the construction of walls and other structures"

Applications:

Architecture: Formwork for concrete and plaster constructions. Sculpture and Design: Producing unique, organic shapes. Leather Molding "Leather molding is a traditional craft technique where leather is softened, shaped, and molded into specific forms to create both functional and decorative items. This process takes advantage of the natural properties of leather, such as its durability, flexibility, and aesthetic appeal. Leather molding is often used for creating accessories, furniture, and architectural elements. The technique involves moistening the leather to improve its pliability, then pressing or wrapping it around molds to achieve the desired shape, followed by a drying or curing process." Applications: Furniture Design: Molding leather to create structural components or decorative elements for furniture pieces. Fashion Accessories: Using molded leather for belts, bags, shoes, and other accessories. Architectural Elements: Creating customized leather panels or elements for interior design or façade treatments.

CNC Milling Machine Overview

A CNC (Computer Numerical Control) milling machine is a precision tool engineered to process materials like metal, plastic, wood, or composites. It operates under computer-controlled commands to guide a rotating cutting tool along multiple axes—commonly X, Y, and Z—enabling the creation of intricate designs. These machines are integral to industries like aerospace, automotive, jewelry design, and rapid prototyping. By offering automation, accuracy, and flexibility, CNC milling machines streamline production processes and deliver high-quality results with consistency.

Features of CNC Milling Machines

Accuracy and Reliability CNC milling machines excel in producing intricate components with exceptional precision. They ensure consistent results, even for large-scale production.

Multi-Axis Operations Standard machines operate on three axes (X, Y, Z), while advanced configurations include additional rotational axes (4-axis or 5-axis), allowing for the fabrication of more complex geometries.

Automation via Programming Machines are programmed using G-code, derived from CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software, which enhances efficiency and reduces human error.

Versatility in Functionality CNC machines perform various operations, such as cutting, drilling, contouring, and engraving, across diverse materials.

Safety Guidelines

-Ensure the machine has sufficient clearance for movement, and the workspace is tidy. Secure loose clothing, hair, or accessories to prevent entanglement.

-Do not place hands near moving parts during operation. Always activate the dust collection system before beginning. -Avoid placing metallic objects on the worktable to prevent accidents. -Remain attentive during operation, ready to stop the machine in emergencies.

Using VCarve Pro Software

File Preparation Insert a USB and save the required file in formats like .stl or .obj. Open VCarve Pro and import the file.

Job Setup

-Define job dimensions for the material, including X, Y, and Z. Use smaller measurements for safety. Set the XY Datum Position to determine the tool's starting point. Model Settings

-Configure the model orientation and ensure the ratio is locked for uniform scaling. Discard unnecessary data and set the base position to zero. -Operating the Milling Machine Power on the machine using the red switch and start the ShopBot software. -Manually position the tool by pressing K to bring up the movement control panel. -Clean and prepare the material, using double-sided tape for adhesion and clamps for stability. -Install the collet, nut, and bit securely to the spindle, ensuring precise alignment.

By following these instructions and safety measures, the CNC milling machine can produce intricate and high-quality components for various applications.

Materials and Tools Required

Fabric Formwork with Casting

Materials:

-Cotton or linen fabric for mold creation. - Plaster or concrete for casting. - Mold release agent (e.g., Vaseline or silicone spray). - Thread or wire to secure fabric. • Tools/Equipment: - Scissors for fabric cutting. - Mixing containers for plaster or concrete. - Measuring tools. - Brushes for applying mold release.

Leather Molding Materials:

• Vegetable-tanned leather for molding. • Water for moistening leather to improve pliability.
• Molding tools (e.g., wooden or metal molds, presses).
• Embossing tools for decorative patterns.
• Leather dye or wax for finishing and color treatment. Tools/Equipment:
• Molding presses or clamps for shaping the leather.
• Heat source (e.g., heat lamp or oven) for softening the leather.
• Sharp knives or rotary cutters for trimming edges and details.
• Leather stitching tools for decorative stitching and edge finishing.
• Embossing tools or stamps for pattern creation.

Process Steps and Instructions

In this section, document each step of your process, clearly describing what you did and how you did it. This is the heart of your documentation, where you explain each task methodically. You can also mention potential challenges and how you overcame them. Fabric Formwork with Casting Fabric Preparation: "First, I chose a cotton fabric that could easily conform to the desired shape. I cut the fabric into sections large enough to form the desired mold."

Mold Construction: "The fabric was shaped over a rigid structure that would serve as the skeleton. I secured the fabric in place with thread and wire to ensure it held its shape during casting."

Casting: I mixed the plaster according to the instructions and poured it into the fabric mold. I ensured that the plaster covered all areas of the fabric mold. I left it to cure for 24 hours before removing the fabric formwork.

Finishing: Once the casting had set, I carefully removed the fabric and touched up any rough edges of the casted material.

Leather Molding Process

Material Selection: "I chose high-quality vegetable-tanned leather due to its durability, natural finish, and ability to retain shape. The leather was cut to size and moistened to make it pliable."

Shaping and Molding: "The moistened leather was placed over a pre-made mold. Using gentle pressure and heat, I allowed the leather to conform to the contours of the mold. This helped the leather hold its shape and form."

Drying and Setting: "After the molding process, the leather was left to dry for 24 hours to ensure it fully hardened and retained the shape of the mold. This step is crucial for ensuring the final product's durability."

Final Processing: "Once dried, the leather was carefully removed from the mold. I then used a variety of tools to trim and finish the edges. To add decorative elements, I used embossing techniques and applied decorative stitching to enhance the aesthetics."

Results and Observations In this section, you reflect on the outcomes of your process. Discuss both your successes and any unexpected outcomes or challenges. Example Start: Fabric Formwork with Casting

Results: "The fabric formwork successfully created smooth, organic curves, and the plaster held the shape well. However, I encountered some difficulty with plaster seepage through the fabric, which I was able to mitigate by applying an extra layer of mold release agent." Unexpected Outcomes: "The casting material dried faster than expected in some areas, which caused uneven texture on certain parts of the form. I corrected this by reapplying a thin layer of plaster." Leather Molding Results: "The molded leather turned out to be firm and durable with a smooth, consistent texture. The embossing and stitching added a refined decorative element, enhancing the overall aesthetic and giving it a unique, handcrafted look." Unexpected Outcomes: "The leather shrank slightly more than expected during the drying process, leading to minor warping at the edges. I adjusted the moisture levels in the leather for the next batch and used a more controlled drying environment to prevent this issue.

SCIENTIFIC PUBLICATIONS:

1. Enhanced Textile Polycaprolactone Scaffolds for Tendon and Ligament Engineering: This study focuses on macroporous braided scaffolds made of polycaprolactone (PCL) fibers, which are biocompatible and have tunable surface modifications, such as incorporating growth factors for therapeutic use. These scaffolds mimic the mechanical and degradation properties of human tissues like the anterior cruciate ligament, making them suitable for applications in tendon and ligament repair.
2. Flock Technology for Bone and Cartilage Tissue Engineering: Using electrostatic flocking, researchers developed scaffolds with vertically aligned fibers. These scaffolds exhibit high porosity, good mechanical stability, and excellent potential for cell adhesion and differentiation, making them promising for bone and cartilage regeneration.

3. Applications of Textile Scaffolds in Regenerative Medicine: Textiles provide significant advantages due to their high surface-to-volume ratio and adaptability in creating complex scaffold structures. Techniques like electrospinning, weaving, and flocking allow customization for various applications, including bone, cartilage, and other tissue types. These publications illustrate the versatility and innovation in using textile scaffolds for regenerative medicine, demonstrating their ability to meet biological, mechanical, and functional requirements. For more detailed insights, you can access the studies: • Textile Polycaprolactone Scaffolds • Flock Technology for Bone and Cartilage.

4. References and Resources Fabric Formwork with Casting: • Kayser, Markus. Fabric Formwork: Design and Fabrication of Formwork for Concrete. Journal of Architectural Science – This paper details the process of using fabric formwork for architectural purposes, providing a deep dive into its design and application in concrete 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. Leather Molding: • Nilsen, Louise. Leathercraft: Traditional Techniques for the Modern Maker. Published by Craftsy, this book provided valuable insight into traditional leatherworking methods and the principles behind molding leather. • Berger, Peter. Leather: History, Techniques, and Modern Applications. Leather Design Journal, Vol. 10, Issue 4. This journal article explored advanced molding techniques, useful for creating durable and aesthetically pleasing leather products. • Lundqvist, Per. "The Science of Leather Molding. Scandinavian Journal of Leather Design, 2019. This article discusses the science behind leather’s response to moisture, heat, and pressure in molding processes.

Research

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weekly assignment

Check out the weekly assignment here or login to your NuEval progress and evaluation page.

about your images..delete the tip!!

1. Remember to credit/reference all your images to their authors. Open source helps us create change faster together, but we all deserve recognition for what we make, design, think, develop.

2. remember to resize and optimize all your images. You will run out of space and the more data, the more servers, the more cooling systems and energy wasted :) make a choice at every image :)

This image is optimised in size with resolution 72 and passed through tinypng for final optimisation. Remove tips when you don't need them anymore!

get inspired!

Check out and research alumni pages to betetr understand how to document and get inspired

• Digital crafts - Shahed Jamhour - CPF Makerspace

• CNC mold - Zahia Albakri - CPF Makerspace

• Crystallisation exploration - Viviane Labelle - EchoFab

• Moulds - Lisa Boulton

• Millinery - Betiana Pavon

Add your fav alumni's pages as references

References & Inspiration

"Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum."

• Two images side-by-side

• Image reference

centered image with credits/reference

• Download reference

Links to reference files, PDF, booklets,

about your images..

1. Remember to credit/reference all your images to their authors. Open source helps us create change faster together, but we all deserve recognition for what we make, design, think, develop.

2. remember to resize and optimize all your images. You will run out of space and the more data, the more servers, the more cooling systems and energy wasted :) make a choice at every image :) This image is optimised in size with resolution 72 and passed through tinypng for final optimisation.

Overview material research outcomes

example from the documentation of Loes Bogers TextileLab Amsterdam 2019-20

Biofoam	Gelatin foil	Bioresin	Biosilicone
Starch Rubber	Biolinoleum	Alginate net	Alginate foil
Alginate string	Agar foil	Bio composite	Reused PLA

Tools

• slides
• sources
• pots, jars...
• spoon, tongs, wisk etc
• molds, textiles, textures, etc

Process and workflow

My first step was too..... Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.

Ingredients & Recipes

Prepare this recipe ¹ by collecting the ingredients necessary, to be found in the list below:

=== "ingredients"

    * xxx gr
    * xxx gr
    * xxx gr
    * xxx ml
    * xxx gr

=== "tools"

    * xxx gr
    * xxx gr
    * xxx gr
    * xxx ml
    * xxx gr

=== recipe fishleather and fishskin bio-plastic (food waste)

    * measure - measure - measure
    * add, combine, mix..
    * simmer, cook, boil, freeze, burn, crush...
    * mix, smash, stack, overlay..
    * cast, pour, press..
    * dry, aereate, dehydrate..
    * remove, peel, unmold..
    * finishing touches

Documenting and comparing experiments

TEST SERIE BIO-PLASTIC

Material pic	Material name	polymer	plastifier	filler	emulsifier
	bio-rainbow	biokelp powder 12 gr	glycerol 100 ml	rainbow dust 1 kg	green soap a drop
	bio-rainbow	biokelp powder 12 gr	glycerol 100 ml	rainbow dust 1 kg	green soap a drop
	bio-rainbow	biokelp powder 12 gr	glycerol 100 ml	rainbow dust 1 kg	green soap a drop
	bio-rainbow	biokelp powder 12 gr	glycerol 100 ml	rainbow dust 1 kg	green soap a drop

RESULTS

Two ways of showcasing and comparing results with images below

On the left an image of a sample made by xxx with xxx. The dye is more xxx. On the right, an image of a sample made by xxx with xxx and xxx. Here the dye is more xxx.

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Recipes

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1. recipe: salmon skin fish-leather ↩