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6. Computational Couture

Research & Ideation

This week was my first experience designing for 3D printing on fabric. We began with an introduction to the history of 3D printing and explored inspiring examples of how it has been used in fashion and design. I also got familiar with essential tools such as blender, learning how to prepare models and understand the basics of printer setup, including temperature settings for different materials and other key technical steps needed to begin the process.

References & Inspiration

To find inspiration, I started by exploring Pinterest for different 3D printing projects, where I came across a variety of creative designs and techniques used in fashion. I also watched several YouTube tutorials on how to create 3D patterns using Blender, which helped me understand the basic modeling process. After experimenting with different ideas, I decided to go with designs based on the UV Sphere shape, as I found its smooth, rounded form both simple and visually appealing. I was particularly interested in how these shapes could be 3D printed and attached to fabric, creating an interesting texture and structure on the garment.

describe what you see in this image

describe what you see in this image


Tools

- blender
- printer
- filament

Process and workflow

Project: UV Sphere Design on Nylon Fabric

Inspiration & Concept

I was inspired by simple geometric forms and decided to use a UV Sphere shape for my 3D print. The round structure adds a clean, futuristic look and works well for experimenting with printing on fabric.

Digital Design

Software used: Blender

  • I created a UV Sphere and adjusted its size to be small and lightweight for easy attachment to the fabric.

  • I flattened the bottom slightly so it would adhere better to the fabric surface.

  • The final model was exported as an STL file for slicing.

describe what you see in this image

Slicing the Model

Software used: Cura

  • Imported the STL file.

  • Chosen material: TPU (flexible filament).

Settings:

  • Layer height: 0.2 mm

  • Infill: 20%

  • Print speed: 50 mm/s

  • Bed temperature: 60°C

supports needed (since the base is not flat).

Preparing the Fabric

  • Fabric used: Nylon (small piece, 10 × 10 cm).

  • Secured the fabric tightly to the print bed using masking tape.

  • Made sure it was smooth and wrinkle-free for better adhesion.

Printer Setup

  • Nozzle temperature: 230°C (for TPU).

  • Bed temperature: 60°C.

  • Ran a quick test print to check bed leveling and adhesion before starting the main print.

Printing Process

  • Started the print.

  • Paused after 3–5 layers to place the nylon fabric carefully on the bed.

  • Resumed printing — the printer continued adding layers on top of the fabric, embedding the UV Sphere shapes into the textile.

Final Result & Reflection

The UV Sphere shapes didn't work well to the nylon fabric, creating a unique textured effect. It was my first experience with e-textiles and 3D printing, and I learned how temperature, fabric tension, and print speed affect the final outcome. This experiment inspired me to explore more ways of combining fabric and geometry in wearable design.