Rebirth
How can I, as a designer, encourage young adults
to creatively reuse paper tissues through
participatory
design,
so they actively contribute to reducing residual waste?
Story
This workshop explores how used tissues can be transformed into garments and accessories.Using paper-making, paper clay, and papier-mâché, creatives turn this everyday material into something new.
The process stays connected to the tissue's origin, wood, and draws inspiration from parallels between human and nature: veins and leaf veins (REVIVE), the spine and a tree trunk (RESTRENGTH), lungs and branches (RELIVE), cells and leaves (REBUILD), and the brain and branches (REMIND).
It's a hands-on journey into the beauty of reuse, nature-inspired design, and personal expression.
The journey
Research
This project began with the desire to recycle waste. I explored different types of trash and
was drawn to residual waste, especially paper tissues. Through various research methods,
this focus took shape, and I began experimenting with the possibilities.
Development
The concept grew from searching for a deeper purpose, a reason. Once I found that connection
to nature, I started testing ideas with a group. I hosted several workshops to explore
directions, which eventually shaped the final design.
- Illustrator
Reflection
This project taught me how to navigate the freedom and challenges of working alone, from finding a
starting point to making every decision myself. It strengthened my ability to shape a process, stay
adaptable, and keep motivated without external input. REBIRTH was also the moment that biodesign and
materials became central to my work.
"What we throw away still carries roots, waiting to grow into something new."
- Project manager / Designer - Lieke Kaspers
- Avans Hogeschool Den Bosch