Just Style

UK to get ‘first’ material digitisation centre in August

The Innovation Studio at Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) is set to become home to what it called the UK's "first" Fabric Digitisation Centre.

The Fabric Digitisation Centre which is set to launch this August has been collaboratively founded by MA Design Fashion Innovation course leader Penelope Norman, and Gabrielle Shiner-Hill, co-founder of Bureau 555.

The duo, specialists in 3D fabric digitisation, shared the centre will create 3D digital fabrics from in-real-life fabrics, by capturing surface texture and physical parameters.

AUB explained that the 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.

MA Design Fashion Innovation course leader, Norman, said: "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. Partnering with Bureau 555, which is accredited by Vizoo and a global leader in material digitisation, 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."

According to Bureau 555's Shiner-Hill, 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.

She said: "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."

Last year, US-based cyber exposure management company Tenable told Just Style that while digitalisation brings enhanced sustainability, reduced waste, stricter inventory management, personalised designs, smart wearable tech garments, AI-enabled virtual fittings and integrated supply chains, increasing online data offers bad actors additional attack vectors.