Clutch

cults3d

A Portable Clutch for Home-Based Printers. I've long admired the creative output of Zomboe and have been eyeing his intricate chainmail designs since acquiring my TOM last year. However, there's a notable lack of 3D printed fabric applications suitable for DIY printers like repraps or makerbots, unlike more advanced machines available on ShapeWays. As an avid craftswoman, I've always wanted to create wearable and feminine accessories using 3D printing technology. Objectives: 1. Design a functional purse that can hold an iPhone. 2. Print and assemble the purse without requiring any glue. 3. Create an attractive and durable product suitable for everyday use. Unfortunately, this project falls short of its intended goals, serving more as a proof-of-concept rather than a working prototype. Despite not achieving my objectives, I believe it's time to share this abandoned project with the online community in the hopes that others can learn from my mistakes. Challenges: 1. The lengthy slicing process took 24 hours using RepG, making it impractical for iterative design. 2. Ensuring every corner adheres to the platform is a major challenge, especially when dealing with a second extruder that often interferes and causes loose ends. 3. Attempting aggressive solutions like applying ABS slurry results in an undesirable surface finish and excessive kapton tape removal. 4. The absence of even one square can lead to print failure, resulting in up to 5 holes in the final product. 5. I've yet to find a suitable solution for assembling the sides together, with options such as blanket stitching and plastic lacing being inadequate. 6. To be functional, this design requires a chain or wristlet loop that hasn't been successfully implemented. 7. By abandoning my no-glue-snap-together approach in favor of allowing multiple pieces, I could create a more aesthetically pleasing design. 8. Although the hinge works well, it needs to be reinforced for durability. 9. The fabric's appearance is pleasing, but its limited flexibility means it can only bend in one axis per side, which should be considered when using it for other applications. This project demonstrates the potential of 3D printing technology in creating wearable accessories, and I look forward to revisiting and refining this design in the future.