A Hybrid Approach to Shoe Design: Fusing Manual Illustration with AI Technologies


Sütlü B. D., Işık Ö., Başlar A., Acar N., Kabir H., UZUN M.

in: Lecture Notes on Multidisciplinary Industrial Engineering, Springer Nature, pp.678-692, 2026 identifier

  • Publication Type: Book Chapter / Chapter Research Book
  • Publication Date: 2026
  • Doi Number: 10.1007/978-3-032-11085-5_60
  • Publisher: Springer Nature
  • Page Numbers: pp.678-692
  • Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Footwear Design, Sustainability
  • Marmara University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

The primary aim of this study is to explore the potential of using various artificial intelligence (AI) tools in designing footwear and to assess their outcomes in comparison with traditional footwear designing methods. The research evaluates visual outputs generated through both hand-drawn and digital sketches, as well as AI-generated designs based on text prompts. A total of 15 designs were generated—five hand sketches, five tablet (digital) drawings, and five AI-generated images—by utilizing either manual or AI-assisted techniques. These outputs were analyzed in terms of visual detail, design quality, and expressive capacity. Furthermore, two selected designs were transformed into physical prototypes to examine the transition from digital concept to tangible product. The study provides valuable insights into how AI-assisted tools can be integrated into the design process of footwear and highlights their potential contributions to contemporary footwear design practices.