Locha Tape Dispenser
An exploration of the intersection of sculptural form and function, the Locha tape dispenser is inspired by an arrowhead sand dollar. Its rounded, protruding profile provides both utility and intrigue. Locha lies in this careful balance — between sculpture and object, hard and soft, natural and artificial.
01 Inspiration
This project began by drawing from a natural organism. Utilizing RISD's extensive collection in their Nature Lab, I selected the coastal Arrowhead Sand Dollar, which is known for its rounded protrusions and and teardrop holes in its center.
02 Form Studies
Using sketches to dissect the form of the sand dollar, I began with volumetric sketches and slowly transitioned to linear forms to get an overall shape of my tape dispenser.
03 Prototyping
Finalizing my overall object and modeling the general form with polystyrene foam.
04 Fabrication
Mold Preparation: Making a 10x10x10” Plywood box to contain the silicone pour, sealing cracks with non-sulfuric clay to prevent melting and adding pink foam to limit the amount of silicone needed.
Casting Iterations: Adding more air vents between castings to prevent a build up of pressure within the mold.
Tin Pattern: Designing a sleek, rolled tin razor and using corner cutter to precisely cut razor blade.
Sanding: Sanding and filing down parting line for casting, and extra cement that dried onto the final cast.
