A CHALLENGE

Since the advent of smartphones, youth and adult depression has risen

This is often attributed to separation from the environment

The concave shears’ long handles are accentuated with points to delve deeper into the beetle inspiration

A SOLUTION

Interaction with nature has been proven to improve mental and physical well-being in cases of

Packaging & Brand

The customer-facing package must represent what the product represents; modernism in touch with tradition. Simple and comprised of old and new renewable materials (paper and mycelium-foam)

Utilizing the Japanese Kanji for “Lightbody” a logo is built on the visuals of the tools and elements of the trees they work on

and Loneliness

How can design be used to encourage younger people to interact with nature in their everyday lives?

Tools of the Trade

Anxiety

Bonsai, the Japanese art of raising mini-trees, is the perfect hobby to focus on

However, the hobby is almost entirely sought after by older people who use antiquated tools.

Through research I found 5 unique tools that are most commonly used to perform bonsai trimming

Short Shears

Long Shears

The “Short Shear” is somewhat of a symbol in Bonsai.

To design the full set, I first designed this shear to form a family identity

Concave Shears

The twig shear features added handles to soften the thin appearance

The long shear features the same design as the short, but with longer blades for reach

Soil Brush

Rough “Proof of Concept” Renders

The soil brush is completely refreshed with a full-steel housing to protect the bristles and prevent flicking dirt

Twisted wooden vines inspire rubberized grip pattern

Depression

Twig Shears

Wherever you find bonsai shears, they either look old and antique, or new and utilitarian.

My goal is to redesign these tools to combine an antique aesthetic with modern sensibilities to appeal to both young and old bonsai hobbyists.

Creating the

Damascus steel patterns inspire blade visuals

Neo-antique

Aesthetic

Ideation

Blade shapes are kept similar, echoing leaves

Beetle motifs are used to beacon Japanese nature culture

Smooth, solid handles break away from antique fragility

Grip-loops are styled in reverse, shaped as perfect circles

SKETCHES

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RESEARCH

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DETAILS

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RENDERS

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SKETCHES - RESEARCH - DETAILS - RENDERS -

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