3. Circular Open Source Fashion¶
Research & Ideation¶
As I started working on my Circular Open Source Fashion assignments, I realised how exciting it is to rethink clothing beyond just design and aesthetics. This module is helping me understand how fashion can be more sustainable, shareable, and transparent. Since I’m still catching up in Fabricademy, I’m approaching this topic with curiosity and a beginner’s mindset, learning step by step.
I’m especially drawn to the idea of open-source fashion because it encourages collaboration—something I really appreciate as I often learn by looking at other people’s work. At the same time, exploring circularity makes me reflect on how materials can be reused, repaired, or transformed instead of wasted.
Even though this is a new area for me, I’m excited to experiment, learn different tools, and discover how these principles can influence my own design practice.
References & Inspiration¶
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maison margiela Galliano frequently uses deconstruction, reconstruction, and visible repair, turning old garments into new couture pieces through creative transformation
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bethany Uses recycled materials, textile waste, handcrafted repairs, and collaborations with social communities to transform discarded textiles into powerful garments.
Tools¶
- Blender
- Adobe Illustrator
- Laser cutter
- Leather
Process and workflow¶
For my circular open-source fashion project, I began by researching how leftover fabrics from the sewing process could be transformed into new, functional materials. I was curious about how small offcuts—pieces that are usually thrown away—could become the starting point for creative experimentation instead of waste. This exploration helped me rethink the value of scraps, seeing them not as discarded pieces but as resources with their own potential. Through this research, I aimed to discover simple, open-source methods that anyone can replicate to upcycle fabric leftovers into meaningful designs, contributing to a more sustainable and accessible fashion ecosystem.
Design and prototyping¶
I found inspiration in these patterns, and they immediately sparked the idea of creating a hand piece. I didn’t have a clear vision of what the final piece would look like, but I allowed myself to experiment freely and follow the flow of the process. Instead of forcing a specific outcome, I let the patterns guide my decisions, allowing the design to evolve naturally and intuitively.
Material testing¶
After finalizing my pattern design, I uploaded it into the laser machine using the laser cutting software. This step allowed me to prepare the file with the right settings, adjust the scale, and make sure every line was clean and ready to cut. Once everything was set, I sent the design to the machine, watching as the laser precisely traced the pattern onto the material. It was exciting to see the digital idea becoming a physical form, marking the transition from concept to creation.
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Lazer
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Laser on leather
I also decided to use leather for the cutting because my instructor suggested it as the best option. It was the only sturdy, string-like material available that could handle the precision and heat of the laser machine without burning or tearing. Even though it wasn’t my first choice, the leather actually gave the design a strong structure and a clean finish. This choice helped me understand how important material selection is, especially when working with digital fabrication tools
Final results¶
In the end, the process led me to create a hand cuff—an accessory that can be worn over a long-sleeve shirt or on its own as a statement piece. The final result felt both intentional and experimental, combining the pattern, material, and laser-cutting technique into something stylish and wearable
