PROCESS¶

Ideation & sketches¶

I have been sketching the design and figuring out the design in my head before I bring into CLO3D

These are different iterations of the intial design on my concept page, as well as some specific elements I am breaking into pattern pieces.

CONCEPT & CONTEXT¶

Objective: Rethink denim recycling by rejecting the patchwork aesthetic and instead embedding sustainability through subtlety, modularity, and reinterpretation.

Your Key Themes:

Circular economy
Modularity (transformable garments)
Sensory & material experimentation
Hybrid fabrication (digital + analog)

Research Base:

Upcycled denim challenges (fraying, aesthetic limitations)
Bio-material testing (agar-based blends)
Modularity as a design principle, not just function

Design & Fabrication¶

DIGITAL DESIGN IN CLO 3D¶

Why CLO 3D: Allows you to digitally simulate deconstructed garments and reconstruct them with modular logic, minimizing waste in real-time. Process:

Model basic garments (jacket, trousers, vest) based on modular panels.
Import fabric scans of used denim to match real materials.
Use layers and topstitching features to simulate reused elements.
Test modular elements: flaps, removable pockets, snapped-on sleeves.
Export patterns with seam lines, notches, and modular instructions.

I focused on creating garments with “interchangeable function-based modules” rather than decorative patching or details.

DIGITAL EMBROIDERY INTEGRATION¶

Goal: Introduce symbolic detail and reinforce panels without relying on decorative patchwork. Process:

Create vector-based embroidery graphics (e.g. compass motifs, symbols of transition).
Use software like Ink/Stitch or Hatch to generate embroidery paths.
Pre-embroider panels before assembly — use interfacing on thin denim.
Test tactile quality — how it interacts with modularity and wear.

There are many types of embroidery stitches and methodologies for getting different results. I mainly used full fill embroidery methods, below are some screenshots of the process and outcome.

SEWING AND MODULAR ASSEMBLY¶

Machine: Industrial or denim-weight sewing machine (singer heavy duty) Threads: Bonded nylon or heavy-duty polyester Assembly Tips:

Use flat-felled seams for strength and clean finish.
Pre-punch snap/button holes with laser cutter if needed.
Use press studs and toggles as your modular connectors.
Use contrasting thread only where intentional — subtlety is key.

I added snap fasteners to separate strips of denim that I could then sew onto the garment. Allowing for a greater repairability as well as personalization of fit and finish.

BIO-MATERIAL TESTING¶

Goal: Explore alternative materials and finishes for surfaces, edges, or standalone elements. Recipes Used:

Agar-Agar + Glycerine for flexible, semi-transparent bioplastics
agar-based versions for coatings and finihes
Colored with activated pigments or mica

Applications:

Create semi-rigid overlays for patches or armor-like accents
Use as waterproof layers or detail insets
Mold into logos or tags to sew into the garments

The coatings will change how the fabric or denim will behave, drape or flow. This can be used to your advantage if you want different parts of the garments to behave or fit differently, use more or less of the coating to get the intended effect.

These are some bio-material samples that I have done to find a coating or different possibilites of using a bio-material with denim.