Implementing 3D Printed Structures as the Newest Textile Form

Pioneering studies on the applications of 3D printing technology and additive manufacturing have been focusing on textile and clothing sector from the last two decades. Moreover, the creative momentum of fabric-like 3D printed structures has come to the point of transforming as for the newest form of textile applications after the advent of chain-mail like structures and flexible micro or meso structures created by SLS rapid manufacturing. Thus, the primary aim of this paper is to discuss the important properties of traditional fabrics that are to be expected of 3D printed structures namely physical properties like flexibility, bending and and drapability. The secondary aim of this study is to compare the mentioned physical properties of 6 3D printed samples regarding same geometry with different sizes, structures and rapid manufacturing methods.