UID23 | Johan Höijertz – Grad Project Presentation
Care & Repair
Degree Project
2023
The project focuses on extending the lifespan of outdoor clothing for children aged 8-12 through simplified repair information and tools. By providing consumers with repair patches, a heating tool, and instruction manuals, the project aims to empower parents and children to perform simple repairs on their clothing. The goal is not only to save money and reduce waste but also to promote sustainability and teach valuable skills. The repair process is viewed as more than just fixing a garment; it is seen as an opportunity for creative expression and personalization. By adding new elements to the clothing, the repaired garments carry a unique history and reflect the child's sense of play and rough use. Through this project, repair becomes a post-production design phase, breathing new life into garments and fostering a deeper connection to the clothes we wear.
Method
The development of this project involved a thorough and iterative process to ensure its effectiveness and user-friendliness. It began with in-depth interviews with parents and children in the target age group of 8-12, providing valuable insights into their experiences and needs. Using these insights, a prototype of the repair kit was created and extensively tested in real-world scenarios. User feedback was collected and analyzed to refine the design and meet user expectations.
Result
Lage, a product line dedicated to repairing and extending the lifespan of functional outdoor clothing for children aged 8-12. The primary aim is to equip consumers with the necessary tools and knowledge to become active participants in garment repair, leading to a reduction in clothing waste. The product family consists of a heating tool for attaching repair patches to outdoor clothing. The repair patches themselves are constructed from durable recycled nylon material, guaranteeing long-lasting adherence to the garment. Furthermore, user-friendly instructions have been developed to support beginners in their repair endeavors. With three color options inspired by Polarn O. Pyret's existing palette, these patches not only accentuate the repairs but also provide users with an opportunity to create something unique and personalized with their garments.
UID23 | Johan Höijertz – Grad Project Presentation
