Researchers from Northwestern University and the University of Illinois are looking to pop-up style greeting cards to solve challenges in areas such as tissue regneration and building construction. 3-D fabrication offers alternatives to 3-D printing as it is faster and allows for use of a wide variety of materials. This technique also incorporates concepts from the Japanese art of paper-cutting known as Kirigami. The technology would allow for such innovations as creating a full-size pop-up shelter that can be shipped flat.