Overview and Background

Introduction to 3D design for Fashion Classes

Students in fashion class with no or limited experience in 3D design and 3D printing will learn basic 3D design concepts using Tinkercad. The students will create a useable decorative sewing buttons. This introductory lesson, can be completed in approximately 90 minutes or two shorter class periods. The first class is an overview of history of sewing buttons and the introduction to using Tinkercad. The second class is student work time to create one or more buttons. This is collaborative project between the library media specialist and the fashion department.

Lesson Plan and Activity

Can you make a button?

Introduction:
Discuss the criteria for a sewing button, in particular size, decorative design, and holes (usually 2 to 4)

To clarify the definition of buttons and spark the creative process, explore the history of buttons and look at samples online or in person.

Step 1
Using Tinkercad displayed on a large screen, model for the students how to select a shape, manipulate size, create holes, attach and layer shapes. Have students replicate the same skills on their own computer screens to practice these skills.

Step 2 Shapes
Students utilize Tinkercad to combine shapes, indents, and holes to design one of more button. I always suggest that the students work in a large size first so they can see the details. Then resize when their design is complete.

Step 3 Holes
Students must create either 2 or 4 holes in their button large enough for thread and needle to pass through.

Step 3 Grouping your button pieces
After grouping their design, students resize the sewing button with a diameter that is between 15-35 mm and between 3-5 mm in thickness. Have students refer to a meter measure stick for reference when deciding on size.

Step 4 Share
Have students use the Share feature in Tinkercad, so you can access their file for later printing. I create a Google doc for students to place the shared link so I can access it whenever the printer is available.

ISTE Standard 4b
Students select and use digital tools to plan and manage a design process that considers design constraints and calculated risks.

Materials Needed

Materials

3D Printer
Tinkercad or other design program
Metric measuring stick
Online or physical sewing buttons as samples

Skills Learned

manipulating shapes
Creating holes
Combining shapes
Grouping shapes
Sizing shapes

Duration of Lesson

90 minutes

Preparation

Button History

Research the history of buttons

Button swirl edge