Assembly

After fabricating the balloon and fabric pocket separately, it is time to assemble the textile actuator. This is a simple two-step process, and you will need a thin rigid tool that does not have any sharp points such as a popsicle stick as well as a needle and thread.

1. Place the stick over the balloon and wrap the tip of the balloon around the stick. Insert the balloon using the stick into the fabric pocket. Once inserted, remove the stick without pulling the balloon out.

2. Sew the open end of the fabric pocket shut. Be careful not to puncture the balloon!

3. Inflate your newly constructed actuator!