Forming Digital Futures: 3D CAD Technology Adoption Among Small Fashion Designers

3D Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software is reshaping fashion design and manufacturing, yet its implementation among small designer brands still needs to be studied. This study addresses this research gap by examining how small fashion designers adopt and utilize 3D CAD technology, focusing on implementation strategies and barriers to adoption. Eight semi-structured interviews were conducted with London fashion designers and digital innovation experts to investigate the technological capabilities, limitations, and future potential of 3D design tools.

The findings reveal significant benefits of 3D CAD adoption, including enhanced design iteration speed, reduced physical sampling costs, and increased ability to respond to market changes. However, small designers face distinct technological challenges, such as high hardware requirements (minimum £2,000 investment in computing equipment), steep software learning curves (averaging 6-12 months for proficiency), and limited access to technical support. Despite these barriers, their organizational agility enables innovative applications of these digital tools, such as hybrid physical-digital workflows and collaborative technology sharing.

These insights suggest that while 3D CAD technology can significantly enhance small-scale fashion design operations, broader industry adoption requires addressing accessibility barriers. The study recommends developing targeted training programs, establishing technology resource-sharing networks, and creating collaborative platforms to democratize access to 3D design capabilities. This research contributes to understanding how digital tools can transform small-scale fashion design while providing practical pathways for technology adoption across the industry.