Outcome

This might seem like just a plain, ole' stick. However, this is more than just a stick. 

This is a stick that stirs, but more importantly, it's a stirring stick that sticks. 

I'm a simple person. I like tea with just a bit of honey. I also value sustainability. Therefore, I feel bad when I have to use a wooden stirring stick or a plastic spoon to mix up the honey in my tea only to throw it out a few seconds later. 

The Sticking Stirring Stick (trademark pending) is designed as a reusable stirring stick. You can use it to mix up whatever beverage you like, then when you're finished stirring, you pop it on the side of the cup or mug. 

Process

Mood Board

The Sticking Stirring Stick features a minimalist aesthetic that was inspired by the simple tea drink that I enjoy. I enjoy tea when I try to unwind and I prefer to waste as little as possible in my life. Therefore, I wanted my design to embody the same values. 

However, I couldn't make the Sticking Stirring Stick just a plain stick. That would be ridiculous. So, I etched some Greek meander patterns onto the top side to add something interesting to look at. The etching also makes the Sticking Stirring Stick easier to grab when one is stirring. 

Sketching

Some of my initial sketches were inspired by some of Tolkein's illustrations from The Lord of the Rings. I explored the possibility of creating etches that would allow the stirring stick to resemble Gandalf's staff. However, I opted to use the Greek Meanders instead because of the limitations of the laser cutters.

Prototyping

My final iteration was made out of white acrylic. Combined with the Greek meander, the Sticking Stirring Stick mirrors a marble column or pillar.