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10. Textile Scaffold

Research

Betiana Pavon ’s project explores the innovative intersection of textile and bio-fabrication through the concept of "Textile as Scaffold." Combining traditional techniques with cutting-edge technology, Pavon created 3D sculptural designs, experimenting with materials like Kombucha and leather. The project bridges fashion and bio-material exploration, emphasizing the potential of textiles in shaping wearable forms that extend beyond conventional uses. This work challenges the boundaries of fashion design, offering new possibilities for future materials and production methods in costume and garment creation.

For more details, you can explore her project here .

Workflow (CNC)

CNC Milling Machine: ShopBot

The ShopBot is a versatile CNC milling machine available in our lab, designed for precision cutting, carving, and milling of various materials.

CNC milling is a subtractive manufacturing process where a rotating cutting tool removes material from a solid workpiece to create the desired shape.

Key Features:

  • Materials: Compatible with wood, plastics, soft metals, and other materials.
  • Cutting Area: Provides a spacious working area for both small and large projects.
  • Precision: Delivers accurate and consistent results for intricate patterns and designs.
  • Versatility: Supports 2D and 3D milling, engraving, and fabrication.

The ShopBot is an essential tool for prototyping, custom fabrication, and artistic creations, making it a valuable resource for students, designers, and makers.

Machine Tools

We start Learning how to choose the right tool for the CNC machine, starting with selecting the correct collet size for the milling bit.

Attaching the Milling Tool

Attaching the milling tool to the CNC machine and ensuring it is securely in place with the help of an expert

Preparing the Wood Sheets

For my project, I chose a 3cm wood board and built a 16cm structure using six sheets of wood. Gluing and pressing the first three sheets for 24 hours.

Pressing the Sheets

After gluing the sheets, I used pressing tools to ensure they stayed in place for 24 hours.

prepare the file to be milling

this body was 3d scanned in week 2

  • I took the file and open it on Fusion 360

  • then using the plane cut I cut the back and lower sides of the body

  • Then I open it on rhino and made sure there no Gaps on the back or lower side of the body.

  • Using the split body tool I splited the body into two part almost same thicknes

Then I made sure about the sizes of the wood I need before going to the mashine !

Milling Process

Preparing the Boards for Milling

Before starting the milling process, we ensure the material (board) is securely attached to the machine to prevent movement during operation. Here's how we attach the boards:

  1. Choose the Right Material: Select a material that fits the project requirements and is compatible with the ShopBot.
  2. Clean the Surface: Ensure the machine bed and the material are clean and free of dust or debris for proper adhesion.
  3. Position the Material: Place the board on the machine bed, aligning it to the origin point or the designated cutting area.
  4. Securing the Material:

-Screws: Use screws to fasten the material directly to the sacrificial layer of the machine bed. This method is sturdy and commonly used for thicker materials.
-Double-Sided Tape: For thinner materials or delicate projects, double-sided tape is applied between the material and the bed to hold it in place without damaging the board.
-Clamps: Clamps are used along the edges of the material for additional stability, especially for larger workpieces.

  1. Check Stability: Confirm the material is firmly attached and won’t shift during the milling process. Test by gently applying pressure to ensure it is secure.

With the material properly attached, the machine is ready for the milling operation.

Starting the milling process, where the machine cuts two levels to achieve a smooth surface for the structure.

CNC Settings

Workflow (Crystalization)

What is Crystallization?

Crystallization is the process where solid crystals form from a liquid or gas. This happens when the solution becomes saturated, and the particles in the solution start to organize into a crystal structure. Factors like temperature and concentration affect the process. Crystallization is used in various fields, including chemistry, geology, and art, to create beautiful and unique crystals.

And this is one of the project I found very nice ! Fairy dress by catherine mcever

Now let's move to the most important part!

How to make Saturated Solutions ?

1. Saturated Salt Solution

  • Materials:
  • Salt (table or sea salt)
  • Water
  • Instructions:
  • Boil water and pour it into a container.
  • Gradually add salt while stirring.
  • Continue adding salt until no more dissolves (saturated solution).
  • Allow the solution to cool before using it for crystallization.

I let it for two day till I got this small crystals

2. Saturated Alum Solution

  • Materials:
  • Alum (Potassium Aluminum Sulfate)
  • Water
  • Instructions:
  • Boil water and pour it into a container.
  • Slowly add alum, stirring continuously.
  • Keep adding alum until no more dissolves (saturated solution).
  • Let the solution cool before using.

After making the solution now It's the time to crystilize something !

I start make the star shape using wood sheet and some screws

The alum formed crystals in about two hours, making it much faster than salt.

Visual Comparison

Salt Solution Alum Solution
Appearance: Clear with visible salt crystals at the bottom after saturation. Appearance: Clear, with alum crystals visible after saturation.
Crystal Formation: Salt crystals form over time as the solution cools. Crystal Formation: Alum crystals form as the solution cools.

for me The Alum get the best crystals !