Dutch designer Christien Meindertsma has invented a technique for 3D printing with wool. It uses a robot-like arm that can apply the wool in layers and felt it together.
According to Meindertsma, the process makes it possible for the first time to produce three-dimensional structures from wool on an industrial scale without using water or binders. The wool creations are flexible and stable at the same time.
Coarse types of sheep’s wool are particularly suitable for 3D printing as they are more tear-resistant. Meindertsma sees potential applications for furniture, acoustic products and insulation, for example. At the Dutch Design Week, she presented, among other things, a wool couch printed by a robotic arm.
With her experiments, the designer wants to find new uses for European sheep’s wool, which is normally a waste product. Meindertsma also works with different wool blends and adds some recycled, dyed yarns to add color. She sees great potential for sustainable material innovation in the technique.
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