THE FUTURE IS HANDMADE
Inspired by traditional basket weaving...
Introducing FLAX a contemporary, DIY bedside table lamp, a kit suitable for the curious, crafts enthusiats.
Introducing FLAX a contemporary, DIY bedside table lamp, a kit suitable for the curious, crafts enthusiats.
FLAX unpacking and weaving
Blending natural textures and colours found in basket weaving with a brighter and contemporary pallet to create a unique identity. FLAX utilizes the modern technique of 3D printing and seagrass twine as its materials. The artificial nature of 3D printing juxtaposes with the natural feel of seagrass brings the FLAX identity to life. Bridging traditional techniques with contemporary design, FLAX is an intriguing DIY bedside table lamp design. The instructions and kit of parts requires the user to engage with the craft of basket weaving to assemble their bedside table lamp. It is suitable for a broad range of users who are curious crafts enthusiasts with limited time and experience. This product aims to bring a touch of handmade elegance to the user’s space.
MERGING THE OLD WITH THE NEW:
Harmonizing age old techniques with contemporary practices. Integrating heritage craftsmanship with technology. This product aims to captivate those intrigued by the fusion of traditional crafts with todays aesthetics and functionalities.
Meeting Mr. Vaggelis in Amorgos, Greece, a local citizen, basket weaver and farmer, to learn how to basket weave.
PACKAGING
The FLAX box contains TPU 3D printed rings, seagrass weaving strands, a wired fitting with a mirrored lightbulb and the FLAX instructions. Thinking with their hands, users step by step assemble all the parts together, emersing themselves fully in a rewarding craft experience.
The project focused on the basic principles of weaving through a kit, this should enable the user to not only achieve a functional outcome but also experience the art of weaving and handling materials. Through experimentation a family of rings were developed that provide the framework for weaving; these also define the shape of the finished form. Initially the rings were made from rigid materials, but this removed the natural flexible properties of baskets. Tests in 3D printed flexible TPU filament produced results that were strong enough to weave through but also retained the pliable characteristics found in traditional baskets. Initially the prototypes were focused on the creation of new baskets, however there was some concern that these would not find value or meaning for a younger audience. At this point the decision was made to apply the weaving to other forms and functions. Experiments with a light source and the resulting shadows that were cast from the weaving provided the final direction to turn the designs into a light.
Instructions
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