Week 6 – Innovation Through Experimentation: Technology and Custom Attachments in Design

Feb 15
2 min read

Updated: 4 hours ago

Testing new materials and technologies to create distinctive attachment mechanisms.

PROCESS

This week involved experimenting with different types of attachment mechanisms for the garments. Because connection was central to the collection's concept, the fastening system became a key design element rather than just a functional detail. I initially explored the possibility of using custom 3D-printed clasps. My intention was to integrate include my logo on the clasp so the attachment would subtly showcase the brand identity.

REFLECTION

Initially, I was excited about the idea because the attachment could serve as both a structural element and a branding detail. It also seemed innovative, since the clasp would be unique to this collection instead of a generic one used on many garments. However, when the clasps arrived and I began testing them, I realised they did not meet the quality standard I was hoping for. They felt fragile and much lower quality than the fabrics and construction of the pieces.

This stage showed that experimenting in design often brings unexpected setbacks. Even though the idea seemed promising at first, the final result did not match the look and quality I wanted for the collection.

Figure 14: Early experiment using a custom 3D printed clasp designed to incorporate my logo into the garment attachment system.

INSIGHT

Entrepreneurship theory emphasizes that innovation often arises from experimentation and the testing of new ideas. Schumpeter (1934) defines entrepreneurship as the introduction of new combinations of technologies or ideas into existing markets. Even though the 3D-printed clasp was not included in the final garments, experimenting with it helped improve the collection and inspired further exploration of other solutions.