Product Design

I have created phone stands, purses, sports equipment, clothing, and lamps using techniques including painting, 3D modeling, laser cutting, 3D printing, vacuum forming, and hand forming Worbla plastic.

Laser Cut Phone Stand

I created a phone stand with a “live hinge.” I achieved this by cutting wood with a laser cutter and fine pattern that causes the wood to be flexible in the places I want my phone stand to bend.

Worbla Hand Bag

I experimented with Worbla and created a purse using black Worbla and a hot air gun. I used a braided pattern to create the base of my purse and added some straps. A special thanks to my classmates who acted as models.

LED & Web Bluetooth Desk Lamp

I laser-cut my name into a piece of acrylic and soldered a Raspberry Pi onto an LED strip light. Then, I uploaded code to GitHub, allowing me to control the lamp from my MacBook.

https://github.com/nataliehilker/natalieh.github.io

Leaf Vein Lamp & Process

I decided to create my lamp using a combination of Worbla and 3D printing. I began by importing an image of a leaf skeleton into Illustrator and tracing its lines. This is the same image used as the background in this slide. Additionally, I found a leaf design on a website offering free 3D printer designs. Using Microsoft 3D Builder and Prusa Slicer, I created a leaf skeleton print file from my original Illustrator image trace.

I cut a sheet of Worbla for my lamp base and placed it in the oven at 200 degrees Fahrenheit. I then arranged my leaf skeletons on that heated piece of Worbla and placed that back into the oven. I then covered my work area with parchment paper and I covered a flexible duct pipe with parchment and paper tape. I used a heat gun to warm the Worbla 3D print combination, wrapping it around the duct cover.

I wrapped LED lights around a Pringles can to distribute light evenly throughout the lamp. Initially, I planned to create a shade using the 3D-printed leaves, but I decided I preferred the lantern look I had already achieved. This left me wondering what to do with the leaves. The solution? A second lamp! I heated a smaller piece of Worbla, placed the top of the lamp into it, and used a knife to trim the excess, sealing the top.

I secured a Pringles can to the top of the lamp using hot glue. Next, I cut a piece of Worbla slightly smaller than the lamp and heated it in the oven until it was flat. I glued this piece to the bottom of the Pringles can, reinforcing the outer rim with more hot glue. Once everything was dry, I added a medium 3D-printed leaf to the lamp to conceal the appearance of the glued-in Pringles can.

I then measured my first lamp and cut a piece of Worbla measuring 13 by 16 inches, repeating the entire process for the second lamp. This time, I incorporated small, medium, and large 3D-printed leaves. Using the excess material from my first lamp, I created two small holders for LED tea lights. The LED strip light I chose offers a variety of colors. Enjoy these epic images!

Embracing Iteration and Pivoting

In the process of design, it is crucial to recognize when to iterate and when to pivot. Initially, I had a different idea for this project, but when I discovered a better concept — creating two lamps instead of one — I changed my plan. This flexibility allowed me to refine my project and achieve a more desirable outcome. Embracing the need to pivot can lead to innovative solutions and improved designs.

Adapting to Constraints

Working within constraints often drives creativity. I initially planned to buy a lamp kit but realized that LED strip lights were less expensive and offered more flexibility. This adjustment required me to think creatively to make the new approach work. Adapting to these constraints not only saved costs but also enhanced the functionality of my design, showcasing the importance of resourcefulness in problem-solving.

Taking Calculated Risks

I am incredibly satisfied with my creations and my decision to take a risk that I wasn't sure would pay off. One significant challenge was determining whether Worbla plastic would adhere to the printed PLA and if they would become malleable at similar temperatures. Despite these uncertainties, I took the risk, which ultimately led to successful and innovative designs. This experience highlights the value of taking calculated risks in the pursuit of excellence in design.

Leaf Vein Lamp Research/Mood Board

Starry Night

I was tasked with designing an original a pickle ball paddle for Reckly. I created a Van Gogh inspired paddle, including a size, and material specs.

Fashion Design

I design clothing and other merchandise. I take Inspiration from pacific northwest plants, ethereal art, and video game culture. I offer my products through Etsy, Daddy’s Rich and Rare Tees. I even feature a video showing how you can make your own fashion designs for free!