Connect More

Connect More is a stitching tool conceived by tapestry artist Tina Francis. She asked us if we could work together to help bring her ideas to life.

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 the 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.

Design Prototyping

Our design thinking has been informed by our love of experimenting and has been led by three-dimensional prototyping.

Each prototype has been tested by Tina and this way of working has enabled us to explore mechanical aspects alongside dimensions, weight, portability, stability, functionality, ease of assembly and visual qualities. Focusing on simplicity of design, quality of finish and attention to detail.

Tina Francis reflects on this project;

“ Ever had an idea rattling around in your head but no real ability to see it lifted from the page?  I work with a needle to stitch communities together whether they are newly arrived, in need of additional care or needing some time to really call their own.  I've noticed that when I have taught citizens to stitch the connection ends there, stitching is pretty solitary so even if you are in a big group you are still stitching essentially alone.  I wanted to try and see how we could stitch together more, creating a meeting place.

I'm taking some time out and studying for an MA at Birmingham City University, for my Social Practice I wanted to explore how we connect when stitching together.  I drew a rough sketch of what I thought I needed and then started to realise that I didn't want to adapt existing tapestry frames because of the barrier they might create if someone has never stitched before or didn't feel confident with their abilities.  So off I went to Dual Works with my "drawing" and words.

Being listened to is a privilege and so I really enjoyed our initial conversations about what I was trying to create as a feeling as much as a finished object. Zoe and Steve really heard what I was trying to do and didn't try to create a solution on the spot.  Working iteratively with them meant that I could see progress and that the design could be finessed just for me.  The tool needed to fit into my wheeler trolley, it needed to be light, it needed to be easy and quick to put together.  It also needed to be fun but not frivolous which somehow happened!

The care and attention to detail meant that I now have a stitching tool called Connect More, there are so many applications for it which I will be researching in my MA and in my practice this year. But of course it is about much more than that.  I feel that Zoe and Steve have set me on the right road of believing in myself so that every stitch has the ability to make a difference”.

You can see Tina’s work HERE

Connect More, designed and made by the Dual Works in collaboration with tapestry artist Tina Francis at our design studio and workshop located in the Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham