Laser-Line Mono-T

The material in this concept has been enhanced through a laser welding finishing process developed by Kate Goldsworthy. Made from commercially available 100% recycled polyester (RPET), the surface material is nonwoven in construction. No additional materials are added during the finishing and construction stages thus preserving recyclability at end of life.

This prototype was designed for a use-phase comparable to a standard fashion top and then returned for full recovery through chemical recycling. The durability of the nonwoven material, as well as the aesthetic quality, is improved through several finishing techniques, which can be digitally engineered and customised for local production close to market. The garment is constructed using ultrasonic seaming technology with flat-bed construction and recyclability is retained through mono-materiality.

There is potential for this fast-forward and circular concept to be scaled up for a mass-market in an industrial context. Local networks of manufacturers will be essential for this vision, from large scale mass-manufacturing plants through to smaller entrepreneurial start- ups. Extended technical understanding within an existing manufacturing landscape presents opportunities for future development of local, fast and circular material and fashion systems.