SewFab: Sewing Inspired Fabrication on an Unmodified FDM 3D Printer Leveraging Intermittent Human Assistance

We propose a technical method and system to enable an unmodified FDM 3D printer to fasten fabric in a manner analogous to traditional sewing. Rows of printed “needles” pierce layers of fabric with “thread” printed to fasten them together. This recreates traditional kinds of stitches while also enabling new ones. A technical evaluation shows the strength is as good or better than traditionally sewn seams. Using this sewing inspired joinery method, a software system translates traditional sewing patterns into a multi-step workflow. Steps are ordered and grouped to balance automation with traditional sequencing for human fabric handling. Intermittent requests by the system require the user to place fabric pieces aided by printed registration marks. A study suggests people with little experience can use the system and complete necessary fabric handling steps. Finally, enhanced types of seams are presented, such as decorative stitches, rivets, fringes, and print-in-place fasteners like buttons and zippers.