Creation of 3D digital printed fashion prototype with innovative surface texture

Abstract

Recent studies have indicated that three-dimensional printing technology benefits the design process and is defined as a breakthrough in the manufacturing process. Three-dimensional printing has come into wide use in different industries as well as fashion industry. Fashion or textile designers adopt 3D printing technology as their creative design tools, such as creating 3D printed garments, 3D printed fabrics or fashion accessories. 3D printers can practically create anything, hence they give designers wide imaginary space and produce creative products. It can be predicted that 3D printing technology will be rapidly applied and play an important role in fashion industries in the future. This research study is practice-based, which combines the theories of 3D printing technologies, practical concept and physical prototype development of 3D printed fashion with innovative surface texture that could be able to apply in current fashion market. The aim of this study is to develop a high-value fashion prototype with an innovative coloured surface texture by using 3D printing technology, based on a theoretical design process model. The research was mainly divided into four stages: research stage, development of the design process model, development and evaluation of the initial prototypes, and detailed design stage. A final 3D printed fashion prototype with innovative texture was then created according to the developed design process model. The knowledge of aesthetic and technical aspects of 3D printing technology and a specific design process model were integrated in this study; thus, both theoretical and practical contribute to the field of 3D printed fashion design to illustrate the innovative design process for 3D printed fashion. The developed theoretical design process model for 3D-printing-based fashion with innovative surface texture can be implemented to contemporary fashion and the high value 3D printed prototype can enhance novelty in high fashion and inspire fashion designers to create successful 3D printed designs for the market.