Handware – 2022
For my Senior Independent Study project at Mount Holyoke College, I combined my passion for digital and physical design to create Handware, an innovative set of 3D-printed flatware inspired by hand-molded clay models. This project reflected my journey through college, including my experiences in the Fimbel Makerspace and my study abroad semester in Copenhagen, where I explored human-centered design principles and creative iteration.
Traditional flatware design often prioritizes aesthetic conformity over ergonomic comfort and personal interaction, limiting usability and inclusivity. Inspired by this challenge, I sought to create flatware that was both functional and personalized, incorporating ergonomic elements informed by how people naturally interact with utensils. My research began with an exploration of the historical and cultural significance of flatware. I delved into resources ranging from a 1922 guide on proper table settings to a 2013 study on gender roles in hospitality, uncovering how flatware design communicates societal norms, such as the “right” and “wrong” way to hold utensils in European traditions.
I investigated my own way of holding flatware, creating impressions in clay by mimicking the grip of a fork, spoon, and knife. This hands-on approach allowed me to explore organic, user-centered design, starting with clay modeling and refining through digital tools. Designers like Antoni Gaudí and Cecilie Manz inspired my process, particularly Manz’s innovative approach to prototyping with foam and paper. I adapted her method, shaping clay around plastic silverware to incorporate hand impressions and unique grip patterns into the handles.
After the clay prototypes dried, I used Artec 3D scanning technology in the makerspace to digitize the models. I refined these digital models in MeshMixer software and prepared them for 3D printing using Cura. This process blended traditional sculpting techniques with modern digital fabrication, allowing me to translate organic forms into precise, functional designs.
The final result was a set of ergonomic flatware that invites playful interaction while challenging the rigidity of traditional tableware design. Each piece was shaped to encourage more natural use, offering a personalized alternative to conventional utensils. The success of the project was demonstrated through its public exhibition at the Hampshire College Art Gallery, where it was showcased alongside Hampshire College Capstone projects. This exhibition highlighted the project’s interdisciplinary innovation and its ability to merge academic research with practical design.
While the concept, research, clay modeling, and digital design were my contributions, the project also benefited from the collaborative environment of the Fimbel Makerspace. The staff provided technical support for 3D scanning and printing, and my professors and peers offered valuable feedback during the development process. Ultimately, Handware represents my ability to integrate artistic practice, technical expertise, and thoughtful design to address a real-world problem.