Singapore’s Tow Tow Revolutionizes Leather Bags with 3D Printing

Singapore-based leather bag brand Tow Tow is making waves in the fashion industry by integrating 3D printing technology into its product designs. Founded in 2019 by Clarissa Kang and Lau Weifang, the duo aimed to create distinctive, playful leather goods that stand out in a crowded market. The name Tow Tow, pronounced “tao tao,” was chosen to reflect the brand’s quirky and light-hearted nature.

Initially, the founders faced challenges with conventional hardware options, which often felt out of place with their innovative vision. To overcome this, Kang, a former furniture product designer, began experimenting with 3D printing. “I liked that 3D printing allows you to see your creation very tangibly,” she noted. This exploration has led Tow Tow to become a pioneering force in the use of 3D printed hardware in leather goods.

Innovative Design Meets Lightweight Materials

Kang believes Tow Tow could be the first bag maker in Singapore to fully adopt 3D printing as a core component of its products. Unlike traditional methods that rely on fixed metal moulds, the 3D printing process allows for greater flexibility in design. The brand currently offers hardware in 52 varieties, matching 23 different leather colors.

The unique designs feature playful elements such as a twist clasp inspired by jars for the Jar bag and a beehive-shaped magnetic clasp for the Funnel bag. This imaginative approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also allows for customisation options. The lightweight materials used in production significantly reduce the weight of the bags; traditional metal hardware typically weighs around 100 grams, while Tow Tow’s hardware, made from Polylactic Acid (PLA) and Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol (PETG), weighs only 10 to 50 grams.

In terms of customer feedback, Kang shared, “Since our early days, we’ve received a lot of positive feedback that our bags are very light compared to others with metal hardware.” This emphasis on weight and design has resonated well with consumers.

From Online Sales to Global Expansion

Initially, Tow Tow operated exclusively online, offering a variety of products including cardholders, phone holders, and their signature Pail bucket bag. However, as demand grew, Kang made the pivotal decision to leave her full-time job in October 2023 to focus entirely on the brand. “Balancing motherhood, a full-time job, and a growing side project was becoming increasingly challenging,” she explained.

The brand’s customisation programme, launched in 2022, allows customers to design their bags by selecting preferred hardware and colour combinations. Currently, these custom bags are available exclusively at Tow Tow’s pop-up events, with a typical lead time of two to five weeks.

Looking to the future, Tow Tow plans to expand beyond Singapore, targeting markets in Thailand, Australia, South Korea, and Japan. Kang expressed excitement about collaborating with other artists to explore new design intersections and enhance the customisation experience. “We aim to introduce new silhouettes and refine our offerings for customers,” she added.

With its innovative approach and commitment to design, Tow Tow is poised to make a significant impact in the leather goods market, blending creativity with cutting-edge technology in a way that is both refreshing and engaging for consumers.