Print experts create custom prosthetic leg cover for bride

Print experts from the University of West England (UWE) in Bristol have developed an eye-catching solution for a bride-to-be – by creating a bespoke covering for her prosthetic leg to match her wedding outfit.

Staff from the Centre for Print Research (CFPR) designed the unique patterned covering after being approached by Gabrielle Couch, who sought help for her daughter Shannon.

Gabrielle approached CFPR for help to create ‘something special’ for her daughter’s wedding in April, as she was aware of the centre’s reputation for print-based problem-solving.

After considering the wedding dress and the wedding’s orange and pink colour scheme during an initial consultation, the CFPR team began discussing creative solutions, particularly using a paper-based printed decal as the cover.

Following further consultation with Shannon, the team produced the personalised wrap-around covering by screen printing a colour blend of oranges and pinks onto a thin pink Japanese tissue substrate.

The print was created by scanning a portion of the lace from Shannon’s dress, using photo editing to create a repeat pattern, and applying pattern-cutting techniques so the paper appeared to be 'tattooed' to the surface.

Once the design was produced, the tissue was applied to the surface of the plain white leg cover and protected with a matt varnish to prevent it from becoming wet or torn.

Laura Clarke, a senior research technician in Multidisciplinary Print at CFPR, says: “We are always looking forward to finding new ways to innovate printmaking, and to have the opportunity to apply our creative skill sets and expertise to come up with practical solutions to new challenges and projects.

“This one was particularly exciting because it was so personal and significant to the client – we really wanted all of her ideas to be considered.”

Clarke was assisted by members of the CFPR team including director, Carinna Parraman, and governance and operations officer, Julia Kowalska.

Shannon was reportedly delighted with the result, wearing the new cover during her wedding day under her full-length gown as well as with a shorter dress for the evening dance.

Shannon says: “Before my wedding, my prosthetic cover was a plain white plastic shell that reminded me of a stormtrooper.

“While it served its purpose, it never felt like part of me or reflected who I am. The team transformed it into something beautiful, inspired by my wedding dress and the colours of the day, which allowed me to fully embrace my disability rather than hide it.”

Speaking about the impact of the print, Shannon adds: “My prosthetic became part of my outfit. Wearing it on my wedding day gave me confidence and made me feel proud. It wasn’t just a cover anymore –  it was a piece of art that helped tell my story and allowed me to celebrate every part of myself as I danced the night away.”

Professor Carinna Parraman, Director of the CFPR, adds: “This was the first prosthetic cover we have made, and the positive response has inspired us to explore even more bespoke designs. We look forward to developing unique solutions, from custom poems to intricate patterns, for future clients.”

CFPR is a multidisciplinary research facility based at UWE Bristol. Founded in 1998, the centre bridges the gap between traditional fine art printmaking and the latest industrial print technology, collaborating with material scientists, engineers, design studios, and international artists.

Among its achievements, CFPR has innovated new sustainable print methods, eco-friendly inks, and advanced substrates, as well as reappraising historical print processes and archival methods through a modern lens.