Company Creates Fashionable 3D Printed Prosthetic Covers

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Established just this year, startup fashion house and retailer UNYQ is reimagining prosthetics as we know them. According to company co-founder Eythor Bender, UNYQ wants each prosthetic wearer to be able to design their own prosthetics, creating covers that express their individual personality.

In contrast to standard, fake looking silicone covers, UNYQ fairings are beautifully-designed, 3D printed covers known as “fairings,” that encase the prosthetic leg. These fairings are designed to help restore the leg’s shape, and also add a touch of signature style

“Until World War II, when the process of fabricating prosthetics was industrialized, all prosthetics were handmade but too expensive to scale due to details of the craftsmanship,” said Bender. “Thanks to its proprietary technique, UNYQ can now, affordably, revive personalization and handcraft innovative 3D printed prosthetic covers — or fairings — that mirror the shape of the amputee’s sound leg.” For bilateral amputees, the company works closely to determine and reproduce the most attractive and appropriate size for the fairings.

UNYQ has studios in Seville and San Francisco and keeps an eye on fashion and the latest trends. While the fairings are currently 3D printed with Polyamide, the company plans to start working with other materials eventually, including silver, steel, textiles, and potentially even leather.

“Forget everything you know about prosthetics!” the company website states. “UNYQ is introducing 30 limited edition collections of fairings to choose from – all 3D printed – that serve as a starting point for you to realize your own ideas. Our designers and artisans work with you to create your one-of-a-kind pieces.”

“Custom-made and handcrafted to your specifications, each fairing and accessory reflects your personal style.”