Where do you get your inspiration from?
My inspiration for these boots all started when I came across this article of a woman stabbing her lover to death with $1500 stilettos as a defense mechanism. I was so intrigued by the concept of stiletto as weapon that I started doing further historical research on weaponry. I went all the way back to Ancient Egypt and looked at khopesh knives to 17th century ottoman sultans and the opulent knives and weapons that were created during that era. I was also inspired by Hideki Kamiya’s Bayonetta. Generally, I’d say a majority of my work is inspired by 90s futurism though.
I come from a fashion background and started using Rhino and SOLIDWORKS about 2 years ago as it completely opened new possibilities for me in my design process. With the incorporation of 3D modeling + printing, I can further push my designs with this kind of technology. I use Rhino most frequently, and utilized the T-Splines plug-in for these boots as well as 3D scanning.
I used a MakerBot Replicator 2 and printed in Acrylic, then chrome plated in 24k gold. It took about 16 hours for the heel to print. I would say I love 3D-printing in metal and resin the most. My 3D printed chess piece as perfume bottle printed in Gold Polished Stainless Steel (which I worked with via Shapeways) and the body of the piece is printed Translucent Resin (which I worked with via Sculpteo). I also printed mouth grillz and a pill pendant in 14k gold.
Chess Piece as Perfume Bottle
I’d say I do a lot of research before starting a project, sketch a little bit but really love freestyling on the program and seeing how it evolves in its digital 3D form. I really think and draw in 3D and find 2D to be mundane and limiting so this works for me.
With the use of 3D printing in my work, I manifest more of my visions into 3D form and reality as I am really a 3D thinker. Also coming from a background of fashion design with my adopted love for product + industrial design, it allows me to shake up the pre-existing aesthetic that 3D printed wearables already have through what’s been done. I always enjoy watching the audience puzzled, as one wouldn’t off the bat guess that those components were in fact 3D printed.
3D Scanned Hand Purse
Tell us a bit about yourself – what’s next and what are you working on now?
I am a NYC-based fashion tech designer and an alumna of Parsons School of Design. Coming from a fashion background, I’ve always enjoyed working exclusively with natural elements such as leather. The use of 3D printing excites me because I am currently furthering my work in bringing together more leather and tech components to create a love affair between fashion and tech. Everything is half 3D printed/half leather. These 3D printed components will range from resin, metal, wood and I plan to move into 3D textile design as well.