The Innovation Studio at Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) will become home to the UK’s first Fabric Digitisation Centre. Set to launch this August, The Fabric Digitisation Centre will address the increasing need for advanced material digitisation and testing services.
Founded by MA Digital Fashion Innovation Course Leader Penelope Norman, and Gabrielle Shiner-Hill, Co-Founder of Bureau 555, specialists in 3D fabric digitisation, the state-of-the-art centre will create 3D digital fabrics from in-real-life fabrics, by capturing surface texture and physical parameters.
The Fabric Digitisation Centre will address the growing need in the fashion industry for advanced material digitisation and testing services to deliver high-quality digital materials for 3D design software programmes, CLO and Browzwear, supporting the UK's push towards cutting-edge 3D design technologies.
Penelope explains, “At AUB, we are at the forefront of 3D design innovation. Our new centre will utilise the expertise of students and researchers to advance fabric digitisation and testing here in the UK.
“By supporting brands in leveraging digital practices, we aim to drive sustainable economic growth and embed environmentally conscious fashion practices within the industry. By partnering with Bureau 555, who are accredited by Vizoo and a global leader in material digitisation, it ensures our processes meet the highest of industry standards. Through strategic overseas partnerships, we can bring the latest technologies and practices to our centre, enhancing our capabilities and reach.”
Gabrielle adds, “The Fabric Digitisation Centre will make it easier and faster for UK fashion businesses to adopt sustainable practices by reducing waste and enhancing resource efficiency. The launch of this centre marks a significant step in positioning the UK as a leader in material digitisation, with far-reaching implications for industry growth and sustainability.”
Renate Eder, Chief Commercial Officer at Vizoo, comments, “We strongly believe that education is a key pillar in changing the industry to a more sustainable one. The collaborative and scalable approach from AUB and Bureau 555 will push the much-needed digitisation of the fashion industry.
“It takes industry experts and leaders like Penelope and Gabby to lead the change of the traditional textile industry. We at Vizoo share the same value of leading this change.”
