For my project, I am creating a minimalist style spice rack, that I hope to be able to use in my kitchen as I venture out into the real world. The first real specification for my project is that the rack allows easy access to spices. I will be accomplishing this in a couple of ways, mainly by making the tower of the rack spin on a bearing located in the base, but also by ensuring that the clearance between the bottom and top racks is high enough to easily reach in to grab a bottle. My second specification is that the rack hold the weight of many bottles and containers, which will be accomplished due to the size of the supports I am using. My third specification is that its shape must be somewhat basic. Because I am aiming for a minimalist aesthetic with this piece, it is important that I utilize more basic shapes and geometries, and not let the rack look too exotic. My fourth specification is that the tower should be stable, and should be able to be spun or moved without tipping or bending. This will be achieved through the use of super glue/epoxy as a bonding agent between parts to ensure the whole structure remains intact. My final specification is that the color needs to be neutral, but still fit into most kitchen environments. This is a piece that I am looking to use in the future, so I want to make sure that whatever I develop won’t stick out like a sore thumb, and will look like it belongs in a kitchen.

My first constraint is counter space. I need this piece to easily fit onto a counter, which is why I designed it so that it is not too large. I am planning on the plates to be 10 inches in diameter, with the base being 6 inches in diameter. Another constraint I have is money. As a college student, I am pretty broke, and through this design process have tried to pick materials that are relatively cheap. I was able to get bearing online at a reasonable price point and have 3D printed components for the piece which came at a very minimal cost. My third constraint is the precision of 3D prints. I designed my base to have an area the same size as my bearing, but when I received the finished piece, I found that the area was to big for the bearing to press in. Because of this, I will have to use glue to fasten in the bearing to the base, as well as to get the center support rod to fit into the center of the bearing. My final constraint so far has been time. This post is being made late as I have been incredibly busy the past 2 weeks, both with some personal issues, as well as senior project issues which have required me to spend a large amount of time working on that as we approach expo. I have gotten through the worst of those issues, and now will have more time to dedicate to this project, and am feeling way less burned out.

2 Comments. Leave new

  • Matt Bloomfield
    April 18, 2025 5:09 pm

    Hi Tay, I’m really into how practical and personal this build is. The spinning tower on a bearing is such a smart touch for ease of use. The attention to counter space and future-proofing the aesthetic makes it feel super intentional. Have you considered using wood stain or textured filament to elevate the look while staying within the minimalist palette? Also, would love to know if you are planning any labeling or iconography to help ID the spices from a quick glance?

  • Andrew Widner
    April 18, 2025 5:01 pm

    Hey Tay. I love your design! A spice rack is a great project that I bet you’ll get a lot of practical use out of. I think incorporating the bearing will help bring its function up to the next level. I see you’re going for a minimalist aesthetic, what are some ways you can make your design work with that and potentially incorporate some more color?

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