1 minute read
Epoxy, Leaves & Bamboo
Objective
The objective of the experiment was to find out if lightweight materials such as leaves and toothpicks will be able to provide structure to epoxy resin.
Advertisement
Process
1. Layer the bamboo toothpick and leaves.
2. Pour Epoxy resin in the ratio of 5:3.
3. Let it cure for 24 hour.
Outcome
The leaves seemed to blend into the epoxy resin and as a result the bamboo toothpicks became the main focus which did not fulfil my aesthetics of a layering effect.
茶私人 (chasiren)
茶碗 (chawan)
Process
1. A plaster mold following the dimensions of an existing bowl was created.
2. Add in the stones and wires.
3. Epoxy resin used to cast the bowl.
Outcome
While the 2-step process appeared to be simple, I encountered several problems along the way such as the ratio of mixing plaster with water and the making of the female and male plaster molds. The usage of stainless steel wires wrapped around the 茶碗 (chawan) provided structural support. I embraced the cracks made during the demolding process as it added character to the chawan - the flaws made this piece unique. In addition, The frosted appearance of the chawan provides an experience for users as the bowl would become clearer when water is added.
茶私人 (chasiren)
茶筅 (chasen)
Process
1. Holes were drilled through the centre of each stone so that the stones could be stringed together with metal wires.
2. Epoxy resin used to coat the stones to prevent chipping in the whisking process.
3. To make the mold for the handle, Oyumaru (plastic clay) was used to make a handle shape.
4. Epoxy resin poured into the Oyumaru mold to cast the shape.
5. Add smaller stones into the handle
6. Attach the stone whisked stringed with the metal wire.
7. Let it cure for 24 hour.
Outcome
The contrast between stone and metal wires in my 茶筅 (chasen) was further elevated as the stringing of stones with metal wires made it resemble a piece of jewellery. Through the making of the chasen, I experimented with a new material known as Oyumaru. It is a reusable thermoplastic that melts when you put it into hot water hence it can be molded into shapes before it hardens when cooled.
