Foot/Print EXP presents five footwear prototypes developed by Sangi and Materia through a process that connects design exploration with advanced digital production. Shown at Zona K in Via Spalato 11, the installation uses Kornit Digital technology to examine how on-demand printing can support new approaches to materials and product development.

Digital printing as a creative tool

A central theme of the project is the shift from printing as a finishing step to printing as a design instrument. Kornit's XDi technology allows the creation of tactile, layered surfaces directly on fabric, while white-ink capability enables precise, high-definition results on dark or coloured textiles. Giovanni Pizzamiglio, Roll-to-Roll Segment Director at Kornit Digital, notes: "With Foot/Print EXP, we see digital printing evolve beyond production into a true creative tool, enabling designers to experiment directly on materials, explore new aesthetics, and bring ideas to life with unprecedented flexibility."

From concept textures to material execution

The installation guides visitors through two environments. The first takes inspiration from a Mars-like landscape, where colours and textures influence the printed surfaces applied to the footwear. The second room shifts into a laboratory space, highlighting materials, processes, and development phases.

The project also underscores the importance of an integrated supply chain. Cotton canvas is provided by Beppetex, technical fabrics by Colombo Industrie Tessili, and leather by Conceria Enterprise. Tintoria Finissaggio 2000 handles the printing of all materials using Kornit systems, translating research concepts into applied surfaces.

Industry collaboration as an innovation framework

D-house laboratorio urbano acts as the project's technological and developmental bridge within Pattern Group. As Francesco Botto, Innovation Development Manager at Pattern Group, explains: "Projects like Foot/Print EXP embody the vision of an advanced supply chain where innovation, research, and manufacturing are in continuous dialogue. Collaboration with partners such as Kornit helps shape more flexible, responsible, and future-oriented production models."

Foot/Print EXP ultimately positions footwear as a platform for experimentation, showing how digital printing can support new production approaches grounded in flexibility, material research, and on-demand manufacturing.