Inspiration and Context
The RISU bag was designed to be a convenient storage option and portable work space/surface. Ten RISUs were constructed and sold for the OSU Winter Design Market '22. The name RISU is the Japanese word for squirrel. When the bag is in the process of being folded, its trapezoidal form is reminiscent of the flying squirrel, our logo. The Japanese word selected as the bag's folding capabilities were inspired by origami boxes.
While responsibilities were shared for this collaborative project, my partner and I were both involved in every step of the process from research, concept exploration, to form ideation, to the design of the specific elements, to construction, to branding. Construction was split 50/50 with myself cutting and laying out the patterns, marking them and pinning them together, and Zoe completing the sewing.
Laser cut tag with RISU logo
Heavy duty snaps and 3-d printed handle
3-d model of the snap-in handles
RISU logo
Materiality and Construction
RISU is constructed of two main materials, reclaimed upholstery fabric layers, and repurposed plastic panels laminated between them. These plastic panels are sturdy, but have enough give to allow for irregular shared items to fit in the bag. The 3-D printed PLA handles are held in place with tension and snap in and out for washing. Heavy duty snaps were used as closure to ensure the bag stays folded and contents stay in. Sewn in and tied on tags served as finishing touches which utilized a laser cutter to create the logos.
