A Three-dimensional visualization model for intangible heritage of tie-dye handicrafts

Abstract This study focuses on the three-dimensional visualization of intangible cultural heritage of the tie-dye handicraft technique. It proposes a virtual modeling method oriented towards the craft logic, reconstructing the fabric shaping and dyeing processes within virtual space. The model employs a particle system as its foundation. By introducing stretching, bending, and penetration constraints, it constructs a fabric structure responsive to manual operations. Adjusting the tolerance of bending constraints simulates the physical manifestation of fabric stiffness. The research addresses the virtualization of four fundamental operations in traditional tie-dye shaping: folding, twisting, bundling, and clamping. These are achieved through geometric positioning, applying external forces, and implementing external constraints, respectively. Regarding the dyeing algorithm, the study innovatively employs spatial confinement calculations to determine the dyeability of different fabric sections, enabling pattern distribution generation and predictive capabilities. To validate the model's effectiveness, a comparative analysis was conducted between virtualized processes and actual tie-dye results for three representative patterns. Utilizing image feature extraction and cluster analysis, it was demonstrated that the differences between virtual and real patterns were consistently smaller than the inherent variations observed within the real patterns themselves. This confirms the model's high fidelity and reliability. This research provides a practical technical pathway for the digital modeling and preservation of traditional intangible cultural heritage. It also brings inspiring ideas for extending visual modeling to non-static, procedural targets.