**Brigitte Kock is the founder of Variable Seams, a platform exploring the intersection of 3D printing and fashion design. A designer, educator, and advocate for sustainable fashion technology, Kock is working to make digital fabrication more accessible to everyday creators. She's currently finishing a book that aims to demystify 3D printed fashion—part field guide, visual history, and hands-on tutorial for designers at every level.
We spoke with her about what's changing in 3D printing, what excites her about the technology, and what she's been making lately.
What are you working on these days?
I'm in the final stretch of writing a book on 3D printing fashion. It's a comprehensive guide—part field guide, part tutorial—that maps the landscape of 3D printed fashion while teaching specific, achievable techniques readers can actually use.
The book showcases what pioneers are achieving, from haute couture to independent design studios, featuring the work of at least 15 designers. I want readers to see the full spectrum and find inspiration in different approaches. But it's also honest about current limitations: comfort challenges, material constraints, recycling barriers. At the same time, it shows what you can do right now—five methods to 3D model and print fabrics, how to design modular systems, and different techniques to create beautiful, wearable designs.
The manifesto behind it: Fashion needs systemic change. From disposable to compostable, from one-size-fits-all to mass customization. 3D printing isn't the solution, but it's a tool that enables these possibilities. That's what excites me and why I want to make the 'how-to' more accessible.
How is 3D printing changing what's possible in fashion?
Every year, 3D printers are cheaper, better, and faster. That means it's much more accessible for people to have one at home. With increased adoption, there's also a much bigger market for filaments, so we're seeing an explosion of new colors and material types—which is great news for fashion designers who want more creative options.
What's an example of something you've designed that never would have been possible without 3D printing?
I designed a double Voronoi corset belt. The Voronoi pattern creates this organic, cell-like structure that's both structurally sound and visually striking. You could never achieve that level of complexity and precision with traditional fabrication methods—it only works because the printer can build those intricate geometries layer by layer.
What's an example of something you've designed that never would have been possible without 3D printing?
I designed a vonoroi corset belt. Voronoi is a mathematical pattern, imagine pouring soap on the corset and the bubbles grow until they meet. On the lines where they meet is what creates the lace. That level of complexity would be hard to reach with traditional fabrication methods. Or if you do, it certainly won’t be at the same speed a 3D printer can create such intricate designs for you (with precision)!
What have you been using Cookiecad for lately?
Check out my latest print for Valentine’s Day using Cookiecad’s Dark Magic TPU. My next project will be a dedicated Cookiecad project. Though I have yet to decide which of their many TPU colours to pick!
Escrito por
Cookiecad