When Dr. Mihri Ozkan, a professor of electrical engineering, wasn’t able to find a bathing suit to her liking, she took it upon herself to create a 3D printed bikini set. It wound up becoming a subject worth talking about in the fashion industry.
Thanks to the assistance of experts in bioengineering, chemistry, and material science, the team worked with Ozhan’s husband, Cengiz, who is also a professor in electrical engineering. It was he who created the sponge material that would introduce the Sponge Suit Bikini.
It won first prize in the Reshape15: Wearable Technology Competition in 2015, an organization that uses its website as an online platform promoting search, education, and production of digital ideas.
It allows designers an opportunity to use an online market to sell their products, as well as ideas, that can be prototyped by makers in the Reshape Community. The material typically used in the eco-conscious swimsuits is a filament also referred to as Sponge.
Interestingly enough, this material not only works as a wearable swimsuit but was originally designed as a method to clean up water that has been polluted by chemicals and oil. The lightweight and flexible porous carbon material soaks up the toxins and repels the water.
The 2015 Sponge Suit that became a central conversation piece in the fashion industry, as well as the 3D printing world, used a 3D-printed flexible plastic frame otherwise known as an elastomer.
It would then sport a Sponge insert that can be used twenty times before losing its ability to absorb contaminants. Not only was the swimsuit design fashionable but protected the body as the Sponge would take in the toxins instead of the person’s skin.
Imagine wearing a bikini set or one-piece swimsuit that comes from a 3D printer that’s wearable but can feature materials that allow you to do your part to clean up the ocean, as well as other natural bodies of water.
3D Printed Bikinis
1. Basic PlungeBra Bikini Top Open Scad (designed by Barry X – aka barryX)
This 3D printable project is designed for the D-sized bra cup. Apparently, it won’t work with smaller cup sizes but may be able to work with larger ones.
Source – Thingiverse: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:5385743
2. Bikini (designed by mupshot)
Design the cup and its size, going with whatever is needed to get the job done.
Source – Thangs: https://thangs.com/designer/mupshot/3d-model/bikini-24284
3. Bikini by Azraeel (designed by Azraeel711)
There isn’t much of a visual to go on but the basic design for a simple bikini top is there, along with all the files needed in order to get the job done.
Source – Clara.io: https://clara.io/view/6bd276ea-d80a-4dca-a613-b300813d7b5c
4. Bikini Bottom by Azareel (designed byAzraeel711)
The matching bottom to go with the Bikini by Azraeel top.
Source – Clara.io: https://clara.io/view/c6b7aa17-2d48-4682-99e5-40054c7159e6
5. Bikini N1221013 (designed by Karat)
A full bikini set with the files to work with, along with a pattern basic enough to follow.
Source – 3Delicious: https://3delicious.net/index.php?a=detail&id=59107
6. Clam Shell Bikini (designed by Kalle-livari Mononen – aka Superbeastie)
Although the designer made the clamshell bikini top for her daughter, the technology is there to make this more than just an add-on for a toy.
Source – Thingiverse: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3325831
7. Cosplay Ariel Seashell Bikini for Mermaids (designed by ANNONMEFG)
Although the designer had Cosplay in mind, this wearable bikini top can easily become something more universal with the right materials such as filament and sponge.
Source – Cults 3D: https://cults3d.com/en/3d-model/fashion/cosplay-ariel-seahshell-bikini-for-mermaids
8. Flexible Filament Bikini Top (designed by Naomi Wu)
This bikini top is not just flexible but wearable. According to the designer, she has worn this without experiencing discomfort.
Source – My Mini Factory: https://www.myminifactory.com/object/3d-print-flexible-filament-bikini-top-39715
9. Full Customizable Bikini Top for Flexible Filament (designed by Sheik)
From the two files provided, the ability to design a wearable bikini top gives at least the basic information to custom-build according to your personal specifications.
Source – Thingiverse: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4559407
10. Sea Shell Top for Polaris BJD (designed by BLUE_ICARIAN_WINGS)
Although originally designed for the Polaris doll in mind, if one uses filament in place, this can be worked out as a comfortably wearable bikini top for a person, too.
Source – Cults 3D: https://cults3d.com/en/3d-model/art/sea-shell-top-for-polaris-bjd
11. Star-Shaped Women Female Bra (designed by DZUSIO)
The designer had sex games in mind with this design but it is still passable as a bikini top, especially with the right material.
Source – Cults 3D: https://cults3d.com/en/3d-model/fashion/women-female-bra-tongue-breast-boobs-bondage-chastity-device-restraints-tits-05-medium-sized-boobs-version-3d-print-cnc
How to actually to 3D print a bikini
3D printing a bikini is a great way to get a unique, one-of-a-kind swimsuit. You can find many different designs online, or you can create your own. The process is simple: first, you’ll need to find a 3D printer.
Then, you’ll need to design your bikini. Once you have your design, you can send it to the printer and have it printed out. Finally, you’ll need to assemble your bikini. With a little patience and some creativity, you can have a beautiful, custom-made bikini in no time!
If you’re looking for a unique way to stand out at the beach this summer, 3D printing a bikini is the way to go. Whether you choose a pre-made design or create your own, you’ll be sure to turn heads. So what are you waiting for?
Here’s a quick overview of the process:
1. Find a 3D printer. You can find many different types of 3D printers online or at your local electronics store.
2. Design your bikini. Once you have a 3D printer, you’ll need to design your bikini. You can find many different design programs online or you can create your own design from scratch.
3. Send your design to the printer. Once you have your design, you’ll need to send it to the printer. This process will vary depending on the type of printer you have, so be sure to follow the instructions that come with your machine.
4. Assemble your bikini. Once your bikini is printed, you’ll need to assemble it. This process will also vary depending on the type of printer you have, so be sure to follow the instructions that come with your machine.
5. Enjoy your new bikini! Once you’ve assembled your bikini, it’s time to hit the beach and show it off. We hope you enjoy your new swimsuit and have a great time this summer!
Types of bikinis to print
There are many different types of bikinis that you can print using a 3D printer. Here are a few of our favorites:
Bikini Top
The bikini top is the perfect way to show some skin while still keeping things classy. There are many different designs to choose from, so you can find the perfect one for you.
String Bikini
The string bikini is a classic choice that will never go out of style. It’s perfect for those who want to show off their curves and get a little bit of sun.
Bandeau Bikini
The bandeau bikini is a great option if you’re looking for something a little bit more coverage. It’s also a great choice if you have a larger chest, as it will provide support and keep you feeling comfortable all day long.
Printed Bikini
The printed bikini is perfect for those who want to make a statement. There are endless possibilities when it comes to prints and patterns, so you can really let your personality shine through.
Types of filament to use
When printing a bikini, you can use many different types of filament. Here are a few of our favorites:
PLA Filament
PLA filament is a great choice for printing bikinis, as it is lightweight and durable. It also comes in a variety of colors, so you can find the perfect one for your swimsuit.
ABS Filament
ABS filament is another great choice for printing bikinis. It is slightly heavier than PLA filament, but it is also more durable. ABS filament comes in a variety of colors as well, so you can find the perfect match for your swimsuit.
Nylon Filament
Nylon filament is a great choice for printing bikinis because it is very strong and durable. It is also available in a variety of colors, so you can find the perfect one for your swimsuit.
How to choose the right size
When choosing a size for your bikini, you’ll need to take a few things into account. First, you’ll need to know your bust, waist, and hip measurements. You’ll also need to consider the type of fabric you’ll be using. If you’re using a stretchy fabric, you may want to go up a size. If you’re using a non-stretchy fabric, you’ll want to choose a size that is snug but not too tight.
Once you have your measurements, you can use a size chart to find the perfect size for your bikini. If you’re still unsure, you can always contact the company that makes the bikini and they will be able to help you choose the right size.
Hello, my name’s Rush Chapman. I’m a 3D printing enthusiast. I started this site to help people choose 3D printing projects and select the best 3D printer for your needs, whether you’re a hobbyist or a pro!
