3D Printing Can Make Hidden Pockets for Storing Money and Even Tampons

Not since the introduction of the pocket protector have personal in-garment storage locations (commonly referred to as “pockets”) been given such carefully considered attention. This time, the cause is their all-too-often absence on women’s clothing, especially garments designed for dressing up and going out. Women’s creative responses to the lack of storage have ranged from coin purses hidden in brassieres to tucking bills into their boots.

Responding to the frustration of having to stand on one foot while removing a boot in search of discreetly stashed beverage funds, one Shapeways designer and proprietor of the shop Laméris designed a hidden pocket that can be added to your wardrobe by simply clipping into place. The pockets come in three sizes depending on how much stuff you need to stash. The small is just big enough to hold folded paper money, the medium size can accommodate paper money and coins, and the large is roomy enough to act as a substitute wallet – unless you collect months of grocery receipts in which case you will still need to engage in a wallet clean out before getting ready to go out.  Basically, if your wallet looks anything like George Castanza’s from Seinfeld this may not be the 3D printed item for you.

The pockets can be printed in a raw white plastic or in several colors of polished plastic from blue to purple to green. The open gridwork of the design makes the case especially light weight and the use of Symbolist inspired floral motifs as the clip adds a feminine touch and a bit of flair to any outfit.

Laméris’ designer, Daphne, described what led to the design:

“I love wearing dresses and skirts, especially when going out. However, these clothes often don’t have any pockets. No place for money, keys or cards. It’s okay if you like to drag a bag everywhere you go, or you have a boyfriend with pockets that volunteers as living bag that also has to go everywhere you want to. But I don’t like bags when I’m dancing. And I don’t like stuffing my bra with coins.”

All in all, I’d say this is a product much less likely to be the butt of engineering jokes and more likely to make a splash as it responds in a beautiful and practical way to a problem that many women have found irksome for years. I wouldn’t be at all surprised to start seeing intricate plastic designs appearing on the sides of clothing and boots in the near future. And, of course, you and I will know that they are, secret pockets.  Have to purchased or printed one of these items?  What are your thoughts on Daphne’s designs?  Discuss in the 3D printed pocket forum thread on 3DPB.com