This weeks class was divided into three parts. First, we learned how to use the laser engraving and cutting software Inkscape, then we learned how to use the Fab Labs high tech sewing machines, and finally we had the opportunity to talk to Mile Stone labs in regardes to our group projects.
Barebones of the watch 
The watch on my wrist
Examples of laser cut objects 
Raster engraving vs. laser cutting
This was my first time using the program Inkscape, however, I am very familiar with changing regular files to vector files. I work for a screen printing company on campus where it is a similar process for preparing files for production. In order to get the best image resolution, all artwork files must be converted to vector format. Once a file is converted to vector format the design can be enlarged to any size and keep its resolution (it will never get pixelated). It is very similar for laser cutting, these lines must tell the machine exactly what to do, either raster or vector. Vector will cut straight through while raster will engrave .
The second portion of the class we were taught how to sew our watch bands! We started with a cloth where we were told to follow a zig-zag line to practice with the pedal and changing directions while sewing. I love to sew so it was awesome to have an opportunity to!
My sewn watch band 
High tech sewing and embroidery machine
The final portion of the class was dedicated to having one on one discussion with Mile Stone labs in regards to our projects. It was great to be able to hear what they thought of our work thus far as well as getting input on where we should be headed.
These are a few of our main take aways:
- Market research. Look at current waterproof sleeves, boating products, fishing products, waterproofing solvent
- Think about DIY system of customizing the joystick covers
- Texture/add ons
- Identifying where the wires are located on current power wheelchairs
- Looking at soft materials
- Figuring out what material we will use, and what the process would be of using them (sewing vs heat etc.)
I am looking forward to next weeks class at the Fab Lab where we will get to see our watches come together as well as developing our projects further!
Hi Isabella! It’s awesome that you already have experience working with design software for your screen printing job. I also was in the sewing section of class today and I really liked learning how to sew. Overall, I think you had some good takeaways from the Milestone Labs call especially, in regards to materials.
Hi Isabella,
I’m also looking forward to seeing how the watches come together next class. I can’t believe it was this simple to create a working wearable. It really makes you think about what possibilities are out there knowing that sometimes solutions can be so simple. I’m glad you liked sewing! It was the first time I had used a sewing machine in a long time, so I wasn’t very good. But it was fun to practice!