6. Computational Couture¶

Research & Ideation¶

What is 3D Printing? 🖨️

3D printing is a technology that lets us create objects layer by layer from a digital model. In fashion, it enables us to produce intricate designs, custom-fit clothing, and even sustainable pieces with minimal waste! 🌍💡

🌐 Introduction¶ Computational Couture combines technology and creativity to shape garments that are entirely unique and perfectly tailored. By leveraging 3D printing, we redefine what’s possible in fabric and form, crafting pieces that are both innovative and eco-friendly. 🌱

🛠️ Methodology¶ Here's how we go from code to clothing:

Design Software: Using Blender,Rhinoceros (Rhino) with Grasshopper, FreeCAD and other programs. Algorithmic Patterns: Generating unique patterns and structures with algorithms. 3D Printing Process: Material selection (recyclable filaments 🌍) Layer-by-layer printing for precision and durabilit

References & Inspiration¶

Tools¶

3D printer – prints fashion pieces
Slicing software (Cura, PrusaSlicer) – prepares files for printing
TPU filament – flexible for wearable fashion
Blender – design 3D fashion forms
Fabric

Process and workflow¶

I'm quite not comfortable with 3D modeling and I'm mostly using Blender clo3d. I don't understand why not everyone is on Blender, it has a lot of ressources, completely open source and the blender community is super efficient !

Step 1¶

Open Blender

Open Blender

Choose New File → General

Delete the default cube (X → Delete)

Step 2¶

On the blender file The system split in two parts, the "buffer" and the "simulation", 1 Create Your Design

Add a shape: Add → Mesh → Cube / Cylinder / Plane

Use simple tools:

G – move

S – scale

R – rotate

Edit the shape:

Go to Edit Mode (Tab)

Use Extrude (E) to pull shapes and create form

Use Loop Cut (Ctrl + R) for details

step 3¶

Make It Printable

Make sure the object is:

Solid (not hollow)

One connected piece

Add thickness:

Use Solidify Modifier

Set thickness (2–4 mm for fashion pieces)

Check scale:

Scene Properties → Units → Millimeters

Scale to real size (e.g., 100 mm)

step 4¶

Check for Errors

Go to 3D Print Toolbox:

Edit → Preferences → Add-ons

Enable 3D Print Toolbox

Open the toolbox:

N key → 3D Print

Click:

Check All

Fix non-manifold edges and thin walls Export for Printing

Select your object

File → Export → STL

Save the file

Step 5¶

Prepare for Printing

Open Cura or PrusaSlicer

Import the STL file

Set:

Material (PLA or TPU)

Layer height (0.2 mm)

Infill (10–20%)

Slice and save G-code

Step 6 last¶

Send G-code to the 3D printer

Start printing