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Problem-Solve with Design
Use what you’ve learned about form and function to design a useful object
You’ve seen how artists, designers, and craftspeople use design to create objects that make life easier. Now it’s your turn to develop a design for a functional object and construct it using recycled materials.
pencils
sketch paper
durable recycled materials (plastic bottles, heavy fabric, cardboard, used packaging, etc.)
fastening agents (hot glue, needle/thread, wire, etc.)
scissors
paint (or other colorful decorative materials, such as fabric)
paintbrushes
Step 1: Find a Problem to Solve
Work out your design by sketching and making diagrams.
Think about your daily life. Is there an existing object you use every day that you could improve with design? Is there an object you’ve always imagined designing that would make your life just a bit easier? Now is your chance to design that object! Start by researching the ways that other people have solved the same problem. How might you do so differently? Which materials could you use to create your object? Select recycled materials that are readily available and inexpensive and that will support the function of your object. For example, if you are making a piece of furniture, look for strong, sturdy materials. But if you’re making an article of clothing, you might want to work with a soft material that will be comfortable to wear. Make diagrams of your design on sketch paper. Make technical notes and try to anticipate any roadblocks you might encounter. Collect your materials.
What materials help make this a functional design?
Tip: Push yourself to think creatively and go beyond designs that already exist.
Step 2: Construct Your Object
Modify your materials and then begin assembling your object.
Begin making your object. Remember to focus on its function and form. The steps you take will depend heavily on your design. Based on your process, you might cut, glue, sew, weave, carve, model, or cast your materials. You might need to do a lot of preparation before you can begin assembling the materials. Allow yourself plenty of time to experiment, and don’t hesitate to adjust your design if the materials aren’t working the way you’d hoped. Trial and error should be a big part of your working process. When your materials are ready, assemble your object.
The student who made the baskets on the left used a weaving technique. How did the student on the right incorporate recycled materials?
Tip: Measure twice; cut once!
Step 3: Add a Surface Design
Add surface designs to your work.
How did the student who designed this vase modify her materials?
After you’ve finished constructing your object, decide whether additional surface design will improve it. If your materials are colorful, you might leave them as they are. This will help showcase the recycled materials you used. But you can also experiment by adding to the work to change its aesthetic quality. Think about whether you can introduce other materials, such as fabric or feathers. Maybe you can add a painted pattern or image to the surface of your object. Is there a way you can use surface design to emphasize your object’s function?
Tip: Before you add surface designs, make sure they won’t hinder your object’s function.
Prepared by: Kara Dobrowolski, Dr. Phillips High School, Orlando, Florida
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