Plastic Enclosure
Role Designer
Duration 10 Days
Tools Plastic Bags
Context
This project challenged me to transform a found material into a handcrafted enclosure with a mechanically operable lid—without power tools or adhesives. Emphasizing material logic and structural integrity, I explored techniques to create a functional yet expressive form. Beyond construction, the project encouraged a deeper exploration of beauty—its cultural context, material expression, and subjective nature. Through orthogonal drawings, gestural sketches, and manipulated imagery, I documented my process, refining both the form and my understanding of craftsmanship. This study became an exercise in discovery and balancing spontaneity to create an object that is both structurally sound and aesthetically compelling.
01
Explorations
I chose plastic bags as my material to repurpose and explore new applications. I began by breaking down the bags to be 2D and experimented with traditional connection methods such as braiding, weaving, and sewing. Due to the material’s slippery texture, weaving was ineffective, but braiding and sewing provided viable corner connections. To address the plastic’s flimsy nature, I tested a method of layering and ironing the sheets with a towel barrier, creating a more rigid yet flexible material. Through experimentation, I found that fusing three layers produced the ideal balance of strength and flexibility, transforming the plastic into a more structurally viable material.
02
"The Box"
While I could create any shape I wanted as long as it was enclosed and had an operable lid, I wanted to use plastic bags to create a "box." Due to the materiality of a plastic bag, I thought going down this route would be more challenging. This thought also helped guide me in my exploration choices. For the sides of the box, I used ironed plastic bags while the middle had a "window" that I sewed a layer of plastic sheet to give opacity and interest. The corners were joined by sewing the sides to a braided plastic piece. The ends of the braids were intentionally left open and frayed to show more of the original material of the plastic bag itself without any processes. The construction of the lid was inspired by buttons on clothing.
03
Plastic Beauty
Capturing and exploring the beauty of my plastic enclosure, I used drawings and photos to express its beauty. The drawings expressed the details, form, shape, and materiality well. The orthogonal drawings documented the details, form, and shape and the gestural sketches highlighted the lightness and sort of chaotic materiality of plastic. The photos can capture the ambiance and its relation to the world. Controlling the lighting, perspective, and focus, the enclosure felt more than just what it is. I also took my creation outside and compared it to nature, finding similarities and connections.
