Sep 18, 2017 | By Tess

Modeclix, an innovative process for creating wearable 3D printed textiles, took the runway by storm at Aarhus Walks on Water, a fashion and tech event held in the Danish city of Aarhus this past weekend.

During the event, visitors were able to see a number of dresses, accessories, and other garments made using Modeclix technology. The process was developed by Shaun Borstrock, Associate Dean for Business and Innovation at the University of Hertfordshire in the UK, in collaboration with Mark Bloomfield, a designer and the founder of Electrobloom, a 3D printed jewelry company.

How does Modeclix work? Well, the process uses laser sintering additive manufacturing technology to create pieces of textile made from several interlocking plastic pieces—not totally unlike chain mail.

The general idea behind Modeclix is slightly different than other 3D printed wearable projects, however, in that it focuses mainly on creating pieces of the textile which, once printed, can be assembled into a wide variety of different styles and garments.

In other words, if you have a length of Modeclix’s polymer fabric, you can easily customize and create any kind of flowing garment you desire and in any size. The project has shown us that it is possible to assemble stunning gowns, casual dresses, shirts, and even purses with the 3D printed material.

Notably, because Modeclix textiles use interlocking parts, the pieces of fabric can be taken apart and reconstructed into new garments, allowing for virtually endless fashion potential.

“We always knew we could adjust any of the garments to fit any body shape but one of the surprising discoveries was that we could also reuse the modeclix components to make new things with,” reads the project’s website. “We simply deconstruct an existing garment and make a new one with from all the bits. Modeclix takes circular economic ideals and recycling to a whole other level!”

The highly flexible materials made using the Modeclix method are made to mimic traditional textiles, and even appropriate existing weaves, stitches, and knitting patterns. Moreover, the plastic material can be easily dyed, making it possible to create different color patterns in a single piece of clothing.

“Previous 3D printed designs have been mostly conceptual pieces that are solid, with little or no movement,” Borstrock told press last year. “We have strived to create stylish 3D printed garments that have sufficient movement to ensure they are fluid, eye-catching, and comfortable to wear.”

He added that he expects that high street shops will soon be marketing and selling 3D printed clothing to the masses. If this is to become a reality, Modeclix could be an important step in the wearability of 3D printed garments.

At Aarhus Walks on Water, Modeclix unveiled a collection of dresses, bags, and headpieces made using the customizable, versatile, and recyclable 3D printed textiles.

Posted in 3D Printing Application

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