- The original overlay pattern
is scanned at 150 dots per inch. Since the pattern is 23" x 34" it
requires 8 separate scans on each side. Any original notes and images are also
scanned.
- The 16 scans are then stitched together using Adobe Photoshop to create a digitized version of the front and
back of the original pattern. These images are saved as bitmaps to maintain the high
resolution and loss-less quality
- Each image is then imported into Adobe Illustrator where the individual pattern pieces are
traced and saved into separate layers. This is analogous to the method originally
used to separate out individual patterns.
- The tracings of the individual pattern pieces are
arranged and all original text information is added. The completed pattern is named
according to the original publication date, number and figure. A scale in inches and
centimeters is also added.
- The completed pattern is saved in the native Adobe Illustrator format (.ai). It is also exported
as a Macromedia Flash image. This allows
visitors to zoom in to text detail while viewing the webpage.
- The Adobe Illustrator
version of the pattern is next imported into Caligari
Truespace. The purpose of this step is to convert the pattern from .ai to the
standard 3D format of .dxf. Caligari Truespace
is the only program at my disposal that can read and write both .ai and .dxf. The
.dxf file can be downloaded from the website and scaled to create a full sized pattern for
designers.
- The .dxf file is opened in Alias|Wavefront
Maya Unlimited where the actual 3D modeling takes place.
Alias|Wavefront
Maya Unlimited contains a program called Maya
Cloth which can simulate fabric properties such as thickness,
draping and resistance to folding. To create the 3D model
the .dxf file must be traced to make a NURBS (non-uniform rational
B-spline) shape from which the virtual fabric panels are made.
The panels are then placed around a human figure imported from Metacreations
Poser . The cloth simulation utility is started and the
panels are virtually stitched together and drape around the figure
to form a 3D model of the garment. Scale is maintained throughout
the operation to insure the fabric quality simulates real-world
conditions as closely as possible. The 3D model is exported
in the .obj file format.
- The next step is to apply a texture map to the 3D model
to simulate fabric weave and needlework decoration. The .obj is imported into
Metacreations 3D Painter where the the
texture map is created and applied. Some elements of the texture map are created and
edited in Adobe Photoshop.
- After the texture map is completed the 3D model is imported into Metacreations
Poser where it can finally be exported in the Metacreations
Metastream format.
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