mukimac

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Sustainability

Jablonex is known for offering a variety of beads, including those that are recycled. This commitment to sustainability aligns with a growing trend in the fashion and craft industries toward more eco-friendly and ethical sourcing of materials.

Environmental Impact: By reusing materials, recycled beads help reduce the demand for new raw materials, which in turn lowers the environmental footprint associated with mining, manufacturing, and transporting these materials.

Unique Designs: Recycled beads often have a unique look and history, providing a distinct aesthetic that can enhance the appeal of handmade jewelry and crafts.

Supporting Sustainable Practices: Purchasing recycled beads supports businesses and practices prioritizing sustainability, encouraging more companies to adopt eco-friendly methods.

GIFT BAGS

Reusing gift bag goods is a practical and eco-friendly practice that helps reduce waste and promotes sustainability.

Re-gift: Save and reuse them for future gift-giving occasions. If the bag is still in good condition, it can be used multiple times.

Storage: Use them for organizing and storing small items like craft supplies, accessories, or jewelry.

Decor: Cut and use parts of the bag for DIY projects, such as scrapbooking, card making, or creating framed artwork.

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Budget(£250)

I decided to order items from Shein because I am familiar with the app, know the quality of their products, and find them cost-effective

Gift bag (100)

£1.00

Scissors (10)

£2.25 *2=£4.50

beads box 1(2)

£2.00*2=£4.00

beads box 2 (4)

£1.00*4=£4.00

Clear string (5)

£0.75*5=£3.75

Colour string (2pack-100strings)

£3.25*2=£6.50

Black string (2pack)

£2.50 *2=£5.00

3 piece string (pack of 2)

£1.00*2 =£2.00

Clear jewellery kit(12 in each pack) 60 boxes

£1.47 *5 =£7.35

This all adds upto £38.10 therefore I decided to use more of the budget to make a jewellery making kit for each participant. However, since I get discount on these mine adds upto 25.85. This helps me save up a lot of the budget too.

I made a decision regarding how I would assemble the jewellery kits for each participant, allowing them to each try something new.

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layout

After researching various layout options for my upcoming workshop;

I summarised the layout advantages to investigate which best fits my work.

I found that sitting in a circle would be the most effective arrangement.

I want to organise the group layout in a circle facing each other in chair. This is because it enhances communication, visual engagment, problem solving issues, improves focus and engagment.

A circular arrangement ensures all members can see each other, promoting eye contact and better non-verbal communication. This setup can facilitate more inclusive and interactive discussions. Visual aids or presentations can be easily viewed by everyone without the need for reorientation, ensuring that all members have equal access to the information being shared. Circular layouts can also improve problem-solving and brainstorming sessions. Diverse perspectives can be shared more freely, leading to more creative and comprehensive solutions.

The inclusive nature of a circle can create a more supportive and trusting environment. This can be particularly beneficial in therapeutic, educational, or conflict-resolution settings where mutual support is crucial. lastly, with everyone facing each other, distractions can be minimized, and the group's focus can be better maintained on the task or discussion. They are more likely to stay engaged when they feel included and can see and hear everyone clearly. This setup can help maintain interest and active participation throughout the meeting.

This arrangement can create a sense of unity and collaboration. It physically and symbolically places everyone on the same level. Therefore, I chose this setting for my workshop.

This is the room I selected for our workshop with consideration of the space and the number of participants we have. Since there are 40-50 people that need to be seated, I decided to arrange a circle of 50 chairs. Additionally, I will have some spare chairs stacked up at the back of the room in case more participants join us. This setup ensures everyone has a place and maintains the inclusive, interactive environment we aim to create. I will present my material using a projector. This setup allows everyone to easily view the content while maintaining the circular seating arrangement, ensuring that all participants can stay engaged and focused on the presentation. I will also be seated within the circle.

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Gender inclusion

Because jewelry-making is typically associated with women, I was having trouble figuring out exactly what would make this project suitable for both genders. As a result, I investigated the kinds and designs of jewellery that men had brought from me. I discovered that most of the younger males had purchased jewellery as gifts for women and had brought black string bracelets.

This helped me recognise that dark shades are more appealing to guys because they are perceived as more manly.I made the decision to take a closer look at the slightly more masculine style black string bracelets.

These are the two bracelets I have sold to men. Considering the age gap and the fact that this project is for the elderly, I researched jewelry that is more appropriate for elderly men. I focused on designs that are both stylish and comfortable for older individuals, ensuring that the bracelets are easy to wear and appealing to their tastes.

I also looked into various companies to see what type of jewelry they are offering for men. This research provided me with ideas on how to design my jewelry, ensuring it appeals to a broad audience while incorporating elements that are particularly suitable for elderly men. By analyzing these offerings, I gained insights into current trends, styles, and materials that could enhance my own designs.

I found that most companies offer metal rings or chains, which are items I cannot create. Therefore, I started looking at jewelry made out of string designed for men.

I chose to focus on braided bracelets for men because, unlike rings, bracelets are within my capabilities to create. Additionally, braided bracelets have a masculine appeal that aligns well with men's fashion. This allows me to offer a stylish, comfortable, and practical accessory that resonates with my target audience. This led me to explore more styles of braided bracelets. I discovered a variety of techniques and patterns, such as braid , cobra braid, fishtail braid, and double cobra braid.

By learning these different styles, I can expand my collection and provide a diverse range of options that cater to different tastes and preferences among men.

Moreover, I realized that the majority of attendees are already actively “engaged in the arts”. Consequently, I concluded that concerns about gender representation are not a significant issue in this context. Instead, we can focus our efforts on fostering collaboration and innovation within this already inclusive community.

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Tutorial making

I used CapCut to create my video tutorials. Although I have my own jewelry business, I have never had to make a video demonstrating the jewelry-making process to an audience. This was challenging for me, as it required significant skills to edit each part and include a soundtrack of myself explaining how I made the bracelet.

At first, I created the tutorial with my voice speaking in the background, but I realized that my voice wasn’t clear. Consequently, I needed to find a way to add a voice-over instead of relying solely on written instructions, as this would be difficult for the elderly to follow quickly. I learned how to do a voice-over using CapCut by watching tutorials on YouTube.

Making picture tutorial was much easier to work with since I had to take picture of each step and write instructions with it only. Also it’s easier for participants to follow since they can look back at it step by step however many times they want to.

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Failed ideas

I followed a tutorial from social media that I wanted to attempt myself. Although I was able to make it, I realized it would be too complicated and challenging for the elderly. Therefore, I decided to discard this idea completely and not present it to them.

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Making rings

Here I am practicing to make a tutorial for the rings I have made. However I wasn’t happy with the instructions. I thought the knotting of the thread was unclear so I decided to make a pictured video which shows the details clearly.

I also put the pictures together and made a little leaflet so they can keep going over the pictures and make the ring step by step without having to repeatedly watching the video.

This is the instruction page with instructions with less words so it’s not too complicated to read.

This is another example of what they can create using the same tutorial: a simple necklace made by stringing beads together.

In addition to making plain rings, I wanted to give participants the opportunity to create more intricate designs. Therefore, I developed a simple tutorial on making a daisy with beads. The instructions are very clear and will also be demonstrated in my presentation for the elderly to follow along.

Then I will show them examples of what else they can make with this daisy to let them have a go at exploring more than just my own idea. Afterward, I will show them examples of other creations they can make using the daisy design, encouraging them to explore beyond my initial idea. For example they can create their own necklace or even a bracelet with the daisy. Here are some photos of what I have made;

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Considerations

Space

Creating one big rectangle where I’m sitting at the front with them

Noise

Speaker at the back of the room so everyone can hear however volume would be in between therefore it’s not too loud.

Layout

Sitting In a rectangular shape

Connection

Since everyone will be facing each other they r more likely to communicate and talk to each so therefore this layout seems the best.

Budget

£250

Ordering online

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English room

I made the decision to work on the windowed English room. This is because everyone would be at ease while crafting due to the pleasant and peaceful view. This will comfort them. Also the natural light means they can see better and bright light would lighten up their mood.

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Space

I chose this space; there are windows all around and natural visibility. This can help;

Mood Improvement: Natural light can help reduce the risk of depression and improve overall mood. Sunlight exposure has been linked to increased serotonin levels, which can enhance feelings of well-being. While they are there making jewellery i want them to be at their best mood.

Fresh Air: Windows that can be opened allow for better ventilation, bringing in fresh air and improving indoor air quality. Good air quality is essential for respiratory health and overall well-being. I think it's nice having the elderly connect with nature as much as possible for better mental health.

Better Visibility: Natural light improves visibility, reducing the risk of accidents and falls. Older adults often have reduced vision, and good lighting is essential for maintaining a safe environment. This might help the eldery see what they are doing better in natural light.

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Developing ideas

Through the individual tutorial with Lara I developed deeper understanding of this project and learnt the things I need to consider and think about during this project. I had to look at what they done previously to ensure I am not repeating because the audience will be otherwise bored. Also considering age, gender, disabilities, difficulties they might face or something that can be harmfully to them mentally or physically.

Jewelry Making

I thought about making jewelry with the eldery. I considered crafting jewellery with the elderly. I want them to like this session, so I'll make it creative and fun. Additionally, I believed that since I have experience manufacturing jewellery, I could instruct them in a new skill.

I often use wire in my work which can be dangerous so i considered all the reasons it can be dangerous especially for older generation.

Physical Strain:

Hand and Joint Strain: Manipulating jewelry wire often requires fine motor skills and strength, which can be difficult for those with arthritis or other joint issues.

Repetitive Strain: Repeated actions such as bending, cutting, and wrapping wire can lead to repetitive strain injuries, especially in the hands and wrists.

Cuts and Punctures:

Sharp Edges: Jewelry wire can have sharp ends after being cut, which can cause cuts or puncture wounds. This is especially risky if an older person has thinner skin or slower healing times.

Improper Tools: Using inappropriate or dull tools can increase the risk of injury while cutting or shaping wire.

Eye Injuries:

Flying Wire Ends: When cutting or trimming wire, small pieces can fly off and potentially cause eye injuries. Safety glasses are recommended to prevent this.

Therefore, i decided to completely get rid of wire and use thread and beads only.