We are integrating fibers with 3D prints, laser-cut materials and other mechanical parts that aren’t traditionally mixed with soft materials. Here are some 1×1 cm laser-cut tiles sewn together with an embroidery machine to make flexible hinges. Shrinking thread locks the final design in a 3D shape. This consumer embroidery machine required some custom alignment software to line up the needle with the 0.7 mm laser-cut holes so it could stitch at top speed without hitting the plastic part.
