London Fashion Week saw the advent of ready to wear clothing that incorporated 3D printed fabric from the fashion brand Pringle of Scotland. 3D printing has made significant in-roads into Haute Couture fashion, as we have covered on 3DPI, but these new fashion statements from Pringle can strut beyond the catwalk. This new line is the result of acollaboration between Pringle and scientist Richard Beckett and utilized the selective laser sintering (SLS) process to produce flexible 3D printed fabrics that move like traditional fabric, with which they can be combined.
In time for its Autumn Winter Collection, the collaborative team took advantage of 3D printing technology. Beckett related, “I used an EOS Formiga P100 SLS system due to its ability to build at high definition, one of the few systems that would allow you to build such complex movable parts at this size.” The sintering system makes use of digital CAD data for production of models up to 330 mm in height. It also boasts 4-channel heating and an external nitrogen connection with other system standards. The process allowed for the production of nylon fabrics that could subsequently be ‘knitted’ into the garments or accessories.
For Pringle’s latest fashion collection, the 3D printed fabrics add a tactile element in wrist wear or raised elements in argyle prints on sweaters. Such an approach can be explained by Pringle of Scotland’s head of design Massimo Nicosia, “I wanted to explore a move away from the more sculptural costume approach of such pieces, towards a more material, haptic-based approach.” The sintered material was woven through small hooks on the underside or stitched into the wool. These are gorgeous patterns and really do enhance the garments in a simple elegant fashion. You recognize something unique, yet it does not shout in an erudite artistic manner. Simply put, these are ready-to-wear and wrap around in breathable comfort and warmth. Or, as quoted by Rachel Park, when she sent me this story: “I love, love, LOVE these!” And it is easy to see why.
Source: Dezeen
