Discovered the process of steam bending and found it to be a fascinating way of creating sculptural forms from a typically solid material. Learned to understand the necessary features required for a successful bend and how to select timber accordingly. Playing with different materials and thicknesses provided further understanding of materiality and allowing the the material to lead the design resulted in exciting outcomes.
The Figure 8 Lamp
Small pieces of oak were exposed to the steam for approx. 30 mins before bending them around a former and applying clamps. Once cooled the pieces were left to rest in a mould overnight before being formed into the basket shape below.
A similar process was applied to a long, thin piece of beech before it was moulded into a figure of 8 loop. Encouraging form to lead the design, the figure of 8 was contorted in different shapes before the final light concept was decided on.
Final Lamp Concept
I would like to explore this design further in the future and discover other opportunities for figure 8 steam bends in furniture design.
