Tailor Wey Dey VEX Digital Innovation in Fashion.
- Oluseyi Ekanem
- Mar 19
- 3 min read
As a 3D artist specializing in SideFX Houdini, I’ve spent the last four years diving deep into the software, exploring its vast capabilities in simulation, modeling, and procedural generation. But what happens when a long-standing passion meets innovative technology? The result can be something truly transformative.
In addition to my work in 3D design, I have a love for sewing. However, there’s always been one recurring frustration: the process of drafting patterns. Every time I set out to create a new garment, I found myself drafting from scratch—or modifying the same basic pattern over and over again. Whether it’s a bodice, skirt, or trouser, the foundational pattern is almost always the same, yet the process of doing it manually took up valuable time and energy. That's when the idea hit me: Why not use Houdini to automate the creation of these basic patterns?
The Idea: Automating Pattern Creation
With Houdini’s powerful procedural workflow, including coding in VEX, I realized I could create a digital asset that not only takes input dimensions but also measures the proportions of a 3D model and generates a basic bodice, skirt, or trouser pattern based on those measurements. Instead of manually drafting and altering patterns every time, I could use this asset to quickly generate the base pattern I need and modify it accordingly.
The process looks like this:
Input Dimensions or Model Measurements: I can either input measurements directly or measure a 3D model to extract its dimensions.
Pattern Generation: Based on these inputs, Houdini’s procedural tools automatically generate a basic pattern for a bodice, skirt, or trouser.
Digital Sewing and Cloth Simulation: Once the patterns are created, I can simulate how they would behave with fabric, using Houdini’s Vellum Drape system. This allows me to see how the fabric would move and drape before ever cutting into real material.
This innovation has dramatically streamlined my patternmaking process and given me a level of flexibility and accuracy that traditional methods never could.
The Impact: Efficiency Meets Creativity
What excites me the most is not just the time I’ve saved, but the creative possibilities this tool opens up. Because the entire patterning process is automated and adaptable, I can focus on the fun part—designing garments and experimenting with fabric, textures, and styles—without worrying about the repetitive, time-consuming task of drafting patterns from scratch.
Moreover, by using Houdini’s advanced simulation tools, I can visualize how a design will look and behave in real life, giving me insights into fit and functionality before I even begin to sew. This is a game-changer for both professional designers and hobbyists alike, especially for those who want to combine digital technology with traditional craftsmanship.
A New Approach to Sewing Design
For anyone who sews, whether professionally or as a hobby, the idea of automating repetitive tasks in the creative process opens up new opportunities. By harnessing the power of tools like Houdini, we can free ourselves from the tedious aspects of patternmaking and instead focus on what truly excites us—creating and innovating.
As a 3D artist, I’m thrilled to have found a way to merge my two passions and streamline my workflow, and I hope that this digital asset can inspire others in the sewing and design communities to explore how technology can enhance their creative process as well.
Future Possibilities
Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue refining this tool, integrating more customization options, and even collaborating with others who are interested in combining 3D art and sewing. The possibilities are endless, and I’m only just getting started
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