Fabric-Lego: 3D-Printing Fabric-Based Lego-Compatible Designs for Assistive Wearables, Personalization, and Self-Expression

Medical braces and assistive wearables serve critical functions in supporting mobility and aiding individuals with temporary disabilities. However, these devices often lack aesthetic appeal and fail to provide personal expression, leading to psychological challenges and social stigma. We propose a novel fabrication method, Fabric-Lego, which combines 3D-printing with traditional garment-making (pattern-making, sewing, ironing, and overlocking) to address these shortcomings. By integrating customizable Lego®-like blocks into wearable fabrics in accessible DIY ways, users can personalize their wearables while maintaining comfort and functionality. We present the fabrication process, including insights on materiality, pre-processing, 3D-printing, and post-processing steps. To demonstrate the design space and potential applications of our method, we implemented 3 prototypes: 1) a customizable arm sling cover, 2) a customizable finger splint cover, and 3) a T-shirt with integrated blocks. This approach offers a promising path for enhancing the user experience and empowering individuals to embrace their unique identities.