WaterCorset draws its inspiration from my deep interest in nature and various global ritualistic traditions.
In previous collections, my primary sources of inspiration have been the beauty of the natural environment, the craft of jewelry making, and the concept of spiritually potent amulets.
With this project, my aim was to blend these influences to conceive a contemporary talisman integrated into the fabric of the garment, symbolised through LEDs. When linked with an Arduino, these LEDs produce a effect reminiscent of cascading water.
waterCorset
waterCorset
Objectives
This project represents a fusion of traditional garment craftsmanship with technology, bringing animated depictions of natural events—specifically, the motion of rain or water droplets—to life. Through the integration of dynamic visuals, the intention is to reimagine and bring closer the elemental experiences that surround us, focusing on the simple yet profound interaction between water and the human touch.
The aim is to foster a deeper connection between individuals and the commonplace yet impactful sensations of water touching the skin or the textiles that clothe us. By blending the tactile heritage of clothing creation with the innovative possibilities offered by modern technology, the project seeks to bridge the gap between the ancestral and the futuristic, making the ordinary extraordinary and nurturing a renewed appreciation for the natural elements that pervade our daily lives.
Digital Garment Visualisation
Laser cutting
Adjusting the settings of the laser cutter to effectively work with fabrics proved to be a meticulous task, requiring multiple trials to achieve the desired cut-through. The initial measurements did not align with my expectations, compelling me to iterate the process of laser cutting and sewing the toile multiple times before arriving at the accurate dimensions. This cycle of trial and error was crucial in refining the precision of my work.
In a separate endeavor for a homework assignment in Coding One, I developed a unique fabric light texture using code in p5.js, introducing sliders that allowed for the manipulation of various aspects such as the distance between elements or the intensity of the curves. Inspired by this digital creation, I opted to incorporate this pattern into my Physical Computing project by engraving it onto fabric. The main challenge lay in strategically placing the engravings to ensure that, once the garment was assembled, the pattern would seamlessly flow across the fabric, lending a continuous and cohesive aesthetic to the final piece.
Features
Hook & Eye
When the circuit is completed, thanks to the conductive nature of the hooks and eyes, the LEDs activate, initiating the water effect.
Water drops effect + accelerometer
Within the code, an accelerometer is used to detect movement. When movement is sensed, the water drop effect is triggered. In periods of inactivity, the LEDs maintain a constant blue color.
Final result + process video
If you want to learn more about the process click here. Read the 6 week journal documenting all the steps taken for this project.