Patrick Tai Is nothing if not patient. The recent Art Institute of Charlotte, fashion design graduate spent nearly one hundred hours creating a dress in 3D. It was also his first project with the 3Doodler. If you’ve ever used a 3D printing pen before then you know that it’s a very challenging tool to work with. He was recently featured by 3Doodler for his designs. Clearly, they were impressed by his work, too.
When asked about his inspiration for his designs Tai had this to say:
“My inspiration comes from geometric shapes, modern architecture, and unique textures. I want the texture of my garments to reflect my inspiration, and that presented a challenge. I looked and looked for fabrics with repetitive lines, shapes, and unique textures. I did not have much luck so I decided to improvise and sort of create my own texture. I feel that giving your audience the chance to feel your designs whether it’s being seen in a photo or on a runway is important. “
In addition to the dress he created some bracelets to go with it, as well. Tai has since gone on to making more dresses, albeit combined with more traditional fabrics, and they were showcased by the North Carolina Fashion Association (NCFA). in a few regional fashion shows around Charlotte, NC and at some charity fashion shows.
When Tai first picked up his 3Doodler, he practiced with ABS filament. When it came time to purchase more filament he accidentally ordered the new Flexy Doodle Strands, which 3Doodler introduced at CES last year. Tai found the material more to his liking and made his dress primarily from that material with ABS used just at the edges for support. Tai drew the dress on a mannequin, ensuring that it would have the proper shape. He later turned to more traditional pattern making for his other garments. The young designer’s first 3D drawn dress has garnered a lot of attention.
According to Tai, “The reactions that I have received from these 3D fashions have been nothing but positive. People have been so supportive and full of compliments, some people couldn’t believe that the pieces were created by a pen.”
Designer Patrick Tai drawing his dress directly onto a mannequin.
Tai entered his dress in the 2015 3Doodler Awards, though this design was not among the winners — for no lack of incredible talent on his part. Tai is excited to keep pushing the boundaries of 3D printed fashion. He is planning on selling his upcoming designs.
“Yes! I am working on an online store. My store will have one-of-a-kind and unique accessories made with the 3Doodler as well as high quality women’s formal clothing. The long term goal is to eventually investing in additional 3D Technology.”
It’s quite a feat designing a dress and I can only admire his fortitude. Below are some additional images of Tai’s creations.
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