3D Printed Textiles

Unfolding the fold is a research and development project exploring ways in which the craft of pleating can inform 3D print technology or how ancient knowledge can aid innovation.

It seeks to understand how the tacit knowledge and dexterity required in pleating can inform innovative outcomes in a one-step process and on fabric substrates that otherwise would not be possible to pleat.

The possibilities of Stratasys’ direct to textile 3D printing technology are further explored through pleating knowledge by 3D printing on pre-stretched textiles that achieve a forth dimension when released off the printer. These ‘programable textiles’ are created using sustainable fabric substrates (such as organic cotton, bamboo, recycled polyester and Econyl recycled nylon) and a waterless process that also allows colour control, to create three dimensional texture and volume. The fabrics retain the stretch and have enhanced movement and sculptural qualities as well as have good washability. They can also withstand dye processes making them of great interest in costume design and apparel.

Arantza Vilas is a textile artist, designer and researcher with an interdisciplinary and experimental studio practice. She is driven by material investigation and deeply invested in processes as her work spans across disciplines and contexts. With an undercurrent exploration of concepts of time she is interested in ancients crafts and sustainable innovative tools and methods that can innovate, provoke reflection and a sense of narrative.

Photos by Sylvain Deleu