3D meets DTG – Stratasys moves into garment decoration

Stratasys has announced a new Direct-to-Garment solution to enable full-colour multi-material 3D printing directly on fully assembled garments.

The first example of its application was revealed in an Urban Tattoo denim collection at the Texprocess exhibition in Frankfurt, Germany, on April 23, 2024.

The D2G solution is ideal for customisation and personalisation by enabling the application of full-colour multi-material 3D print directly on fully assembled garments of various fabric types, including denim, cotton, polyester, and linen. It allows fashion brands to facilitate personalised and bespoke designs for customers, including the ability to tailor 3D prints according to individual preferences, sizes, and styles.

Zehavit Reisin, Senior Vice President of Commercial Solutions, Stratasys, says, “Many brands are limited in how much they can mass produce denim clothing while maintaining a level of personalisation that has meaning to the wearer. We are allowing brands to do something remarkable, to bring more character to their clothing line, while pushing a more sustainable business practice that appeals to multiple audiences across the consumer spectrum.”

Available in two sizes, the D2G tray kits facilitate the personalisation of garments ranging from jeans to jackets, enabling designers and manufacturers to adopt more sustainable practices by reducing material waste. The seamless workflow delivers ease of calibration and compatibility with various garment sizes, streamlining the production process and fostering the creation of unique, personalised apparel.

Demonstrating this innovation, the Urban Tattoo collection showcases the potential and ease of direct-to-garment 3D printing. Working with noted designers Karim Rashid, Travis Fitch, and Zlatko Yanakiev at Meshroom along with Foraeva Studio, this distinctive collection shows the transformation of ordinary garments into extraordinary pieces of wearable art, imbuing them with personal identity and meaning.

Like body tattoos, Urban Tattoos promote a deeper emotional connection, encouraging the upcycling of existing garments, contributing to a more sustainable fashion ecosystem, and aligning with Stratasys’ strategy for Mindful Manufacturing. Stratasys has created a new collection that will appeal to multiple brands across diverse socio-economic backgrounds.

“With Urban Tattoos, we’re not just decorating a garment, we’re giving it more life and spirit,” says Naomi Kaempfer, Stratasys Creative Director. “By adding layers of stories and symbolism that resonate with the individuality of the wearer, these tattoos help consumers promote their identity and celebrate their individuality. It is a testament to the transformative power of additive manufacturing technology in fashion.”