3D digital technologies: Sculpting, modelling & construction of patterns for costume & clothing

Technology is Poetry.
(T-Shirt Issue Collective, Shapeshifters, 2010

This paper explores pattern design through a practice based approach through integrating and experimenting with 3D digital design & production technologies. The research has evolved through several months of collaboration and has transcended disciplinary boundaries. The research has attempted to expand thinking around pattern cutting practice into new areas by incorporating 3D digital drawing, sculpture and 3D pattern generation and cutting methods. The outcomes are presented as a work in progress collection of digital creative pattern cutting experiments and practitioner experiences. Academics and postgraduate students from the School of Art, Design & Architecture’s 3D digital research group have worked closely with industrial research partners Assyst Bullmer and Optitex to explore and document new ways of drawing, sculpting, cutting and constructing 3D clothing in three dimensions (3D) on virtual bodies using 3D Technologies.

Keywords: Digital Sculpture; pattern cutting; transdisciplinary, fashion design, costume design