Computer-Aided Design for Fabrics
An exploration of CLO3D
This week, I am exploring Computer-Aided Design (CAD) which is the use of computer programs for design. I am eager to push ahead a prototype concept of a hydrodynamic dry bag that can be used for towing gear across a body of water while swimming. We were encouraged to explore the Rhino and Fusion 360 CAD programs, but I found a program specifically created for fabric designers — CLO.
It can be used for creating bags (mostly fashion) and one of the functions I wanted to take advantage of was the ability to simultaneously see the 3D shape and the 2D pattern, which could be exported to be cut out.
I watched a few tutorials and then jumped into the CLO program. On the left, is the 3D view and on the right, is the 2D view. For a starting reference, I inserted a 3D model of a t-shirt and built my bag roughly the same size.
I created the basic forms of the bag and then I could select which sides needed to be sewn together. It is a great visual way to see how the stitching lines up.
When things were lined up to be stitched, I initiated a simulation function where the bag is woven together and becomes a 3D shape. Gravity and fabric are simulated in the 3D output and you can pinch and drag the shape around to see how the fabric pulls and bends.
The fabric I will be using may have a bit more rigidity and I gave the edges a bit more crispness.
I also wanted to attach a pocket onto the front of the bag and after many attempts and rearranging, I could only get a very twisted and unusual form.
CLO is an interesting CAD program and there is so much more that I could explore, particularly with the clothes options. They have avatars with customizable measurements (who you are designing for) and you can “build” your clothes to those specific measurements.
The drawbacks were that the interface seemed a bit clunky, the tutorials were TERRIBLE, there were limitations for the accessory items (no buckles) and the 3D simulations/ gravity didn’t always feel intuitive. This program seems very powerful and I am excited to see what it can do with clothing design.
In the future, I hope to take a 3D scan of my body and use that as an avatar for designing outdoor gear and clothes that fit perfectly.
Check it out!
