By Mariana Leung, Source: Ecosalon

3d

Before this, the traditional production cycle of shipping materials and goods back and forth (mostly overseas) has barely changed in the last century. Now, with the rapid development of 3D printing, eco-friendly fashion designers are gearing up for a revolution that could make producing fashion sustainable.

3D printed clothing and accessories made record appearances on the runways in 2014. Pringle of Scotland featured a laser sintered nylon technique for their fall 2014 collection. Victoria’s Secret collaborated with Swarovski and Shapeways to create flamboyant accessories for their show last year.

While 3D printing was initially identified with making plastic models, there have been significant strides in textile development with different fibers. Researchers as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have successfully used 3D CAD software and silk worms to print a dome. With a few adjustments, one could easily adapt the design to produce a finished dress. Knitting machines have already been able to knit fully finished sweaters, but a 3D printed process using silicone coated cotton yarn is being developed. Scientists may be the ones to dictate the next fashion trends.

Read the full story at: Ecosalon