Bamboo

A side note on the previous post, here's a shot of the work I've done to start understanding the material.

Working with bamboo

Another senior project that has been underway for the past couple months is a study and exploration of bamboo with the intentions of designing and making a chair. The idea has been to focus on the method for jointing the bamboo with solid wood: I've been expand on the typical binding methods, seeking something that has a more fluid and consistent transition between the solid wood and bamboo. Bamboo is such a great material, but has a very distinct look and method for building that makes it so different from solid woods. I've been aiming at finding new ways for using bamboo that make it more of a refined material, less jungle looking and more of a modern minimal aesthetic. The issue of supplying bamboo has made me really focus on the reason that I'm using this material; unlike most other natural building materials, bamboo grows rapidly and has a huge potential within the realm of sustainability. In light of being sustainable, finding local suppliers has been important. The bamboo industry within the United States is fed by a few major companies, but many smaller bamboo based product and furniture fabricators have established local relationships. This weekend, I was able to pick up some bamboo that was grown a New Jersey backyard and I've set to work drying it.

2nd model

The second model has been completed in muslin, sewn as it would be with the rip stop. This was an important step for figuring out technical details of seams and the finishing that would be needed. Pictures of testing to come soon.

2nd model

Having completed one full scale sketch model, there's an abundance of information to work with to refine and guide the design. The image on the left shows the first and second designs: the first one is the most simple, basic square shape. As found in the first model, there is the issue of the corners. When being folded the corners become excess fabric that is harder to deal with, and needs to have a designated location to secure to, so that the final folded bag is clean and ordered and composed in such a way that the 2 dimensional tarp is transformed. The first model also lacked any kind of graphic information directing the user on placement and folding/ bagging. The second model uses a different footprint; one that will be more space efficient and well planned out for bagging, while still being the right amount of material to protect the cord from the ground. the triangle tabs are reinforcements for a two sides of a strap that will secure the middle. That was also an issue with the first model. The only two points of connection holding the tarp together as a bag were one from the top and one from the bottom. This method relied on the right and left side tucking in and staying in place, but another security is needed.