I think my engineering mentality has led me to believe that the best way to start something is to think linearly. But things never ever end up the way I planned it, so I really should learn from my mistakes. Nevertheless, I started this Upcycle project with a linear design process. From choosing materials, to ideation, sketching, and execution.. it seemed appropriate for these simple hanging planters. As I am writing this blog post late, I can attest to having to go back and reevaluate my time and resources.
For instance, I’ve started braiding the plastic bags and what I didn’t realize was how much plastic I actually need to get the cord length I need to actually make the cradle for the glass. Additionally, cutting glass with acetone and string has not been the easiest thing– so I will be keeping the glasses intact as a result of my failed efforts.
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Very well put together and thought out design loop. This loop accounts for many changes in design, which will help the project immensely. Th aesthetic will be enhanced by the change to hemp and a clear bottle.
Your design process is very easy to follow and reminds me of my own design process to an extent. I spent a lot of time thinking I could use certain materials (repurposed wood and PVC pipe) to make my original idea but it didn’t pan it to how I expected.
I’d love to see how this turns out!
Similarly, I too tend to believe that all my projects will progress linearly when in fact they don’t. Consequently, I had to reevaluate my time-commitment to this project due to how long it took me to choose a material and concept. I appreciate the fact that I am not the only one going through this. Hopefully we can both learn from it, and progress as designers.
I like how you thought of using some very unnatural materials such as the plastic bags, and trying to incorporate them into an aesthetic that is very natural. The hemp as you mentioned, does look much more natural and I like that you switched the strings to that instead. The wine bottle was a great choice especially one that was clear and had a unique non-known logo. Good job, I would buy one!
I like the aesthetic you have created with these, the hemp actually looks really nice with the bottle, it gives an impression of the balance nature and artificial materials. But this is an awesome project and good job with the weaving. It would be awesome to see how far you can go with the intricacy with the weaving of the hemp. I’m sure some interesting patterns could be made, which could also make your project more one-off and original like you were hoping it to be.
I also did not realize how many plastic bags it would take to make a finished product. I think we have learned similar lessons with this project. Namely, the amount of materials (or perhaps cost of materials in the real world) dictate how far you can take a design. I too had to redesign my plastic yarn project to fit within the realm my abilities.