Deep Dive - Process

An area of study that I did for this project was look into different materials and processes. To start out, I researched more about my favorite material: wood. The reason I am so drawn to wood is that it is a warm, natural material that makes a product seem more luxurious. 

I have always enjoyed working in wood, but I was curious about the mass manufacturing of products out of wood. One process that I looked deeper into was CNC. On this website, I found a great definition: 

"CNC Machining is a process used in the manufacturing sector that involves the use of computers to control machine tools. Tools that can be controlled in this manner include lathes, mills, routers and grinders. The CNC in CNC Machining stands for Computer Numerical Control."

Wood is not only a pleasant material, but also very forgiving when machined. It can have higher speeds and feeds when machining, which is something that can't be done in metal. One downside to machining wood is that it wears out the tools faster. This is something to consider because if I would want to have a product manufactured, this would probably be calculated into the cost of manufacturing. Some local CNC companies around the Chicagoland area I found that would be good sources to either get quotes for a project or more information are Precise Companies and Jay Gee Wood Products Company, Inc.  

Past and Current Kickstarters

To get inspiration for my Kickstarter, I viewed past projects from EPD. One project that stood out to me was Ariel Lynne's Sindr. Her candle holder was simple, but incorporated many features into the form and materiality. The form allows a space to put different shape and sizes of candles, as well as incense. Sindr is made from cast iron which allows the user to strike a match on the actual candle holder. It is obvious Ariel put a lot of work and research into her project and I believe that's why it was successful. I plan on pushing myself with my Kickstarter project to ensure I have done a lot of research and exploration in form that will incorporate features but be simple in form. 

Current projects on Kickstarter are just as inspirational. One project that caught my eye was the NUVI NOMAD project. Nina Rössler started this project with the idea of using natural materials, specifically Teak leaves, as an alternative to leather in the design and fashion world. She explains how she treats the leaves to ensure durable, long-term use and the benefits of using this alternative. I backed this project on Kickstarter because I appreciate Nina's efforts in pushing design and fashion in a more environmental and ethical direction. I strongly believe designers can make a difference in the world, and Nina, as well as myself, can prove to people that it is possible. 

Interviewing an Entrepreneur

As an aspiring entrepreneur, its helpful to talk to real entrepreneurs and hear their stories. I know someone who started their own business and I plan to interview them to learn a little more. Here is what I plan to ask:

• Tell me a little about yourself and your past before starting your own business.

• What inspired you to start your own business?

• How did you get started?

• What were some successes? Some challenges?

• How did you resolve those challenges?

• Tell me about the business. The beginnings, how it is now, and any goals for the future.

• What influences your business decisions?

• Have you always seen yourself as an entrepreneur?

• What is something you wish you knew sooner that would have helped your business?

• Any advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?

• How did you know you were ready to start your own business?