Wednesday, August 26, 2009

project one: experience enrichment



Sewing can be a fun and enjoyable activity, however the need to unpick stitches, is not. Although not always aesthetically palatable or pleasurable to use, a seam unpicker is an essential item in any sewing kit. The majority seam unpickers on the market are comprised of flimsy plastic without the ability to gain a sturdy, comfortable grip; not to mention hideously plain. Why not turn a grisly task into a peachy experience?

The base of my idea originates from the frustration of having to unpick stitches with the standard feeble tools available. This redesigned seam unpicker makes the job more bearable with its sturdy yet lightweight frame. Not only does this seam unpicker have an ergonomic shape for a comfortable grip for either left or right-handed users, but also it has the added feature of a needle threader at its base. This dual function tool eliminates the need to have both a seam ripper and needle threader in one sewing kit, freeing up space for other items. The design of the exterior is whimsical and cute with its playful yellow and black striped pattern resembling a honeybee.

Ideally, this product would be made of plastic for its lightweight properties. The product would not only be available in a range of patterns, i.e. ladybird print, butterfly pattern, etc. but it could be made in a broad range of plain colours to appeal to a wider market. For this particular design, the product is aimed at 35 - 50 year old housewives that enjoy making cute crafts and sewing projects.

Overall, this delightful product enhances the user's experience because it's simple to use, has a dual function, and is a fresh change of pace from the standard devices available.

Mood board:

Original concept:


Technical drawing:



8 comments:

  1. This comment has been removed by the author.

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  2. This is a great design. Unpicking stitches and threading needles is such finicky fiddly work so I love that you've created a comfortable, decent sized and fun solution. I would like a cover or guard for it as seen in your original concept drawing. I really like the playfulness. Good work!

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  3. i personally really like this design, when was looking at it, it made me want to buy one in the market and unpicking stitches and threading needles at home, I love how you used black and yellow, it looks like a cute looking bee. Emily can you make me one too?

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  4. When i saw this i was immediately attracted to it with its bright bee-like colours. It's very original to standard unpickers, as there is not a lot of variety in the design of unpickers in the market so this definitely stands out. Personally, i much prefer your original concept, as it has such a nicely designed cover for the sharp unpicker end and seems to suit the bee-like characteristics more. Other than that, a job WELL DONE!

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  5. I think your design is really cute. Even though it is bigger than an average unpicker, I would still purchase it if it was on market.

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  6. This design had a great and playful nature . i felt it was lacking in the sence it was too literal . otherwise good project and well delivered model .

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  7. A functional object that ably fulfills the need of the user. It has a simplicity that is pleasing.
    It is an appropriate size with an efficient mechanism for the job. I think a more ergonomically shaped and textured handle with attention to materials would add to the users pleasure. Perhaps a more sophisticated graphic /colour combination. As it is I think it would appeal to the younger market. A good functional item for which there is a clearly defined market.

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  8. really nice design and nicly finished model as well. its very simple and well designed. its looks ergonomic whilst being extremely asthetic as well. nice job

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