Project2: UPCYCLING

As number of vehicles like bikes and cars being increased, the amount of used tyres also grows dramatically. There are found of millions of waste and unwanted tyres in landfill and they have a strong impact on environment due to improper disposal. Therefore through this project, I decide to transform this trash into a like rubber product – Wine Carrier. Now, this waste is redesigned and used in an environment friendly way with low cost for material purchase.
Firstly, I have considered the properties of tyre inner tube and see what thing that I can make out from this material. Tyre is like rubber, it is durable and moveable. Playing around, we can see that it has high elasticity. Thus, I think it is very good for making product that to hold or store things like bag or storage. Some of my very first ideas are to make clothe rack or food case. However it is not really suitable because of the safety and cleanness issues.
Wine carrier is normally made out of various materials; however one of the most famous materials recently is Neoprene. In general, tyre and neoprene have the same rubber characteristic; also they both are temperature insulating. Thus, choice to make wine carrier out of tyre inner tube is logical, functional and suitable.
I redesign the appearance of a normal Neoprene wine holder, so it would bring pleasure to users. The bag has a weaving structure rather than a normal, flat surface. The basic crossing over one under one is used because it gives a tight layer and clear weaving shape. The opening is one of the most changed of the design, it shows curves which is implied for the movement of wine when pouring or even also implied for the spread for wine smell. It is ended in a circle captures the feeling when first tasting wine. Head is spined around, everything starts to be blurry and in round shape. The handle is also redesigned to so we can hold it easier and more comfortable. There is a folded piece of cardboard is inserted inside the base of tyre wine carrier, so the base becomes stiffer and more stable.
This bag is done by hand sewing and it took for around 3 days. I think we can manufacture both by hand sewing or using machine, however it would save lot of time for mass product by using sewing machine. Before the sewing process, tyre is cleaned several times with water and soap, so it can be clean enough for use.
In conclusion, I think this is a very good choice of upcycling millions of waste tyre inner tube. Its characteristics rubber- like makes sure the long lasting of use without any breaks or damage. Also, its insulation helps to keep the wine being cool all time. Material is available in plenty of numbers and with low cost; simple sewing technique is used. Therefore, this elegant wine carrier is completely suitable for mass product and out in the market.