11. Open Source Hardware - From Fibers to Fabric¶

Cover Art- Nadia Attmore

Research & Ideation¶

This week, we looked at open source hardware as a means to reconsider how accessible tools may be used to create textiles and surface designs. Instead of creating a machine from the ground up, I concentrated on using digital fabrication to adapt an existing typical tools.

My interest in art was inspired by my training in both painting and fashion. Texture and surface manipulation play an important role in painting, therefore I wanted to find out how a hybrid mixed media approach may be applied to fabric and printmaking.

References & Inspiration¶

A basic paint roller is repurposed in the concept as a tool for surface printing and textiles. The device can create intricate designs, that are difficult or tedious to recreate by hand by substituting a 3D-printed textured cylinder for the conventional fabric roller sleeve.

This technique connects open source experimentation, digital production, and is efficient and a repeatable application of texture.

My inspiration for this project draws from designers who have consistently used repetitive patterning and animal inspired surfaces as a core design style. These designers show how print can serve as identity, rhythm, and structure in addition to adornment.

Roberto Cavalli is renowned for his daring use of animal patterns that highlight sensuality and movement. My research on the use of textured rollers and continuous print methods is heavily influenced by his work, which views pattern as a second skin in which repetition strengthens the connection between body, fabric, and surface.

Dries Van Noten uses scale, layering, and cultural references for his print. His strategic and textured use of repetition frequently blurs the line between textile and artwork, which is in line with my desire to translate complicated surfaces using alternative fabrication techniques.

Tools¶

- Blender
- 3D Printer
- Paint Roller 
- Soldering Iron

Process¶

I used Blender to make my own cylinder by manipulating a shape.

Afterwards, I was able to add a texture to my cylinder.

3D‑printed texture roller¶

    Quantity: 1–2 (multiple pattern tests)

    Material: PLA or TPU filament

    Purpose:
    Replaces the traditional fabric roller sleeve
    fish scale/ zebra print inspired repetitive texture

    Fabrication Method:
    Designed parametrically
    Exported as STL
    3D printed and fitted onto roller core

3D printer filament¶

    Quantity: 100–150 g per roller

    Purpose:
    Used to fabricate the textured roller sleeve

Adhesives & Assembly Tools¶

    Soldering iron

    Quantity: 1

    Purpose:
    Used to heat-seal or modify the 3D-printed roller ends

    Allows opening or resizing holes for roller axle fit