THE YARN RECLAIMER
University Project
March 2023 - May 2023
The brief
Inspired by my exploration of reusing yarn scraps and learning about carding and spinning processes, I developed the brief for my project. Seeing that current equipment can be expensive when purchased separately, I set out to design an affordable, compact, all-in-one tool. My goal was to include everything needed to efficiently turn yarn scraps back into usable yarn.
Final Product
May 2023
The yarn reclaimer is a 3-in-1 compact tool that is designed for hobbyists to turn their yarn scraps, a by-product of crafts like crocheting or knitting, back into yarn with ease. The first step is to break up the fibres using the blending board. The second step is to spin this fibre into yarn using the e-spinner. The third step is to use the new recycled yarn with ease by using our lazy Kate to dispense the yarn as you work.
Why?
Yarn scraps, a by-product of textile processes such as knitting, add to the issue of textile waste. In the UK alone, there are over 7 million knitters, with each creator contributing to this waste stream. To address the issue effectively, tackling waste at its source is crucial as it fosters accountability and encourages individuals to take responsibility.
How?
After experimenting with a couple of dog brushes and a drop spindle which were very tricky to use, I looked into using an e-spinner to spin the fibre into yarn. I was able to 3D print myself one, using a file I found on Thingaverse from a user named Lourens van Urk. While facing initial challenges in spinning yarn, I gained valuable insights for enhancing user-friendliness, such as modifying the size of the yarn guide hooks and moving the dial and switch.
During the ideation phase, the focus was on integrating the blending board, yarn spinner, and lazy Kate in an innovative way. Initially, the design centered around housing the yarn spinner, but I noticed wasted space on the walls and lid. This realization led to the exploration of folding sides, revealing the blending board and lazy Kate. To enhance usability, storage for the carding brush and spare spool was incorporated through the addition of a storage box underneath the product.
Exploration
March 2023
In this initial stage, I experimented with turning yarn scraps into untangled fibre and then used a handmade drop spindle to spin it into yarn. I found this challenging, as the process requires a certain technique.
Sketching
March 2023
Once I had the initial concept of the product, I planned on making a carding machine which is used for detangling fibre and could be incorporated into my design. I then started ideating the features of my product and potential forms.
Ideation
April 2023
I began modelling potential forms on Fusion 360 that incorporated a way of detangling the fibres as well as spinning them.
Prototypes
April 2023
I built the carding machine from laser-cut MDF and plywood to understand how the mechanism worked. I also did some electronic work to get the first e-spinner prototype running, and created a cardboard model of one of the form designs to explore scale.
Final 3D Model
May 2023
Below shows the final form of The Yarn Reclaimer. This design brings together all the steps needed to transform yarn scraps into yarn in a single, compact tool. The form was developed to be practical, ergonomic, and easy to operate, reflecting the research and prototypes carried out during the project.
Making
May 2023
I made the final prototype out of laser cut plywood which I then veneered. I heat bent acrylic for the window at the back and 3D printed the e-spinner and all the accessories.
Achievements
June 2023
At the degree show, I won the Product Design Upstarter Award for The Yarn Reclaimer. This award is given to students who create projects that encourage sustainability. I then had the opportunity of showing The Yarn reclaimer at New Designers 2023 which was an amazing way to gather feedback for my project and connect with other designers.
