Wearable accessory designers’ perceptions using 3D printing technology

The purpose of this study was to examine wearable accessory designers’ perceptions using 3D printing (3DP) technology. Sixteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with 3DP wearable accessory designers globally. Findings suggest that 3DP was easier than traditional making methods. Plastics were the easiest material to print, while steel and ceramics were difficult to print. The most efficient CAD programme was Rhino 3D and Blender the most inefficient. In terms of learning curves, software was easy to learn and dimensions were difficult to learn. Easiest designs were rings, and most difficult designs were necklaces. Entering the 3DP field was not difficult, and the majority felt that 3DP will become mainstream. Designers hope that printers improve. This study provides support for 3DP educational programmes, software programmes and materials for learning ease, needed education resources on material dimensions, and the creation of affordable higher quality printers.