At this point in the semester you have all learned about all of the fabrication technologies we have in the lab. Before we fully launch into the final project phase of the class, let’s take a moment to review the various lab tools that we’ve spent the first half of the semester learning and explore new creative applications for them.
These processes include, but are not limited to:
- 2D vector drawing and laser cutting
- 3D CAD and 3D printing
- Woodshop
- CNC machining
- Sewing machine / embroidery
- Microcontrollers (GoGo Board, etc.)
- Soldering with small electronics
- Forming and Casting
And by new creative applications applications, we mean:
- Using advanced functions in 2D / 3D design software to create complex designs
- Tinkering with machine and software settings to bring about more complex designs
- Using nonstandard materials (that is, not cardboard, plywood, MDF, and acrylic with the laser cutter)
- Creative combination of materials.
- Post-processing / finishing techniques
- And much more
Assignment
In class we developed an alternative world (see Slack for a refresher on our created world). Within this world you also created a character, with life goals and dreads of their own. Now we want you to imagine what your character’s most “prized possession” is and make it. What is something they use everyday, wouldn’t leave home without, or would be devastated to lose? Make sure you are thinking from the perspective of your character in the world they inhabit!
Your homework is to create your character’s most prized possession using at least 3 different fabrication techniques!
Example: My character is a weather person for their community in a world with unpredictable storms. Their most prized possession is a headband that helps them navigate sudden darkness that unpredictable storms can bring. I could make this by sewing a headband, soldering and attaching LED lights that they can turn on when it gets unexpectedly dark out, and 3D printing and attaching a little turbine that spins in the wind.
Deliverables
Please submit the following:
Posted to Miro by midnight Thursday (3/26/2026) night:
- A picture of both sides of your character sheet (completed in class)
- Using your character sheet and the world we have collectively built (see Slack for refresher), write a short (approximately 150 words) introduction for your character. This should be a very short biography that describes who they are, what they do, what they care about in their world, and what values they live by.
Posted to Miro by midnight Tuesday (3/31/2026) night:
- Sketches and Photos from your ideation and making process.
- Approx. 300 word reflection on your creation and the creating process. You should include answers to all of the following:
- What is the prized possession you created for your character?
- What inspired your decision to make this as your character’s prized possession?
- What is its significance to your character and the world we developed?
- If your object existed in our world now, what could you use it for today?
- What fabrication techniques did you use to make this prized possession?
- What is something new you discovered using these fabrication techniques this time?
Bring to class on Wednesday (4/1/2026):
- Your character’s prized possession! Make sure you use 3 different fabrication techniques.
Assessment
| ✓+ | Meets all requirements described above and does something particularly creative or stunning. There’s no precise criterion here. |
| ✓ | Meets all requirements described above. |
| ✓- | Does not meet the requirements described above. |