The grass is greener on both sides
Research, Product Design, Crafts
BA 2023
How can we tackle the ongoing issue of excessive consumption and (re-) implement sustainable low-tech solutions back into our lives?
How do we deal with the challenge of supplying a growing world population with renewable resources in the future?
During my last semester at university, I dealt with the topic of weaving. I investigated on regional resources and researched the way materials were extracted and used hundreds of years ago. Ultimately my
The project the grass is greener on both sides aims to revive the ancient craft of hedge weaving.
This technique is an inherently sustainable way of creating a barrier. Hedges used as living fences are an important ecosystem with many ecological benefits, both in the countryside and in the city. They contribute to biodiversity by providing a habitat for animals and insects, preserve soil fertility by protecting against erosion, and have a cooling effect in summer.
The picnic blanket serves as a guideline for weaving the pattern but also it can be spread out on the ground during a break. The pattern can be used to weave three different hedge styles. While weaving, the blanket is hung on two posts behind the plants, so that the plants, following the respective lines have to be moved to the right place and become intertwined. The "over" and "under" when weaving should be followed for more stability and is also represented by a continuous or split line in the pattern.
The apron has a print showing the procedure of braiding for the three hedge styles. It is also equipped with two pockets for the heart-connectors. The blanket and the apron are the components of the product catalog that are not biodegradable and remain in the possession of the users for a long time. They can also be used independently of the hedge, but their prints are a reminder of their use as a hedge weaving tool.
The heart rubbers are made of natural rubber and are designed for different applications in three different sizes. The smallest is suitable as a plant connector for thinner shoots, the larger for thicker shoots and to connect the plants to the rail. The larger and stronger rubber can be used to hang the blanket from the posts. The bright pink color should make the rubbers easily recognizable in the garden. The hearts serve as a "button" or attachment point for the other end of the rubber, as well as being a recurring symbol in the system. The connectors are attached and detached with a flick of the wrist.
The purpose of the fence is to indicate a clear boundary from the beginning, even when the plants of the hedge are still small. At the same time, it serves as a structure for the hedge. Both when planting the plants in the soil and when weaving, a horizontal bar is helpful because the shoots can be attached to the bar and thus be directed in the right direction. The fence is easy to assemble and because of the wooden joint does not need any other fasteners such as nails or screws. The wood is untreated. The posts are made of naturally grown chestnut, and the crossbar is made of softwood and the length can be adjusted to the required fence length. Both components are intended to decay over time and be replaced by the hedge as a living fence.
Exclusive insights into the associated project catalogue which includes a schedule and a quiz.