Interactive stitching tool

Thoughtfully crafted conversation

CLIENT: Tina Francis, Tapestry Artist

CATEGORY: Arts and Culture

PROJECT TYPE: Product design and fabrication

LOCATION: Birmingham, UK

MATERIALS: Birch plywood and Formica

PHOTOGRAPHER: Angela Grabowska

APPROACH:

Connect More is a stitching tool conceived by tapestry artist Tina Francis. Together, we collaborated to help bring her idea to life via a series of design prototypes.

This shared stitching tool aims to aid an interaction between two people, as a mechanism to initiate conversation whilst undertaking a crafting activity. It’s envisioned that the act of stitching through the woven canvas by exchanging a needle and thread between two people focuses attention on the act of making together. This mediative act of doing may or may not provoke a dialogue in memory of a loved one as a way to share experiences of bereavement and healing.

Thoughtfully conceived through a series of three-dimensional design prototypes. We explored the mechanical aspects alongside dimensions, weight, portability, stability, functionality, ease of assembly and visual qualities. Each of these was tested by Tina to develop and refine the final product. Crafted in birch plywood, we focused on simplicity of design, quality of finish and attention to detail.