TLED 115 HANDICRAFT
Think, Pair Share!
Name: Sheena Rane D. Chong Date: April 23, 2024
Arianne L. Carzon
1. Explain why each handicraft is unique.
- A handcraft is special because it represents the artistry, imagination,
and cultural background of the person who created it. When
craftspeople work on a creation, they add their own unique style,
feelings, and experiences to it. Every craftsman, whether they work in
woodworking, ceramics, or weaving, has a unique way of approaching
their craft that is shaped by their background, environment, and
customs. Every stitch, brushstroke, and carving exhibit this
uniqueness, making each handcraft a representation of the artisan's
identity and skill.
2. Name five handicrafts and re-arrange them from simple complex.
Justify why or how each handicraft is more complex than the other.
1. Paper Quilling: Paper quilling involves rolling and shaping strips
of paper into various designs and shapes. It's relatively simple to learn
as it primarily involves basic rolling and shaping techniques.
Complexity increases with the intricacy of designs, the use of different
shapes and sizes of quilling paper, and techniques such as combing or
husking.
2. Cross-Stitching: Cross-stitching is a form of embroidery that uses
x-shaped stitches to create patterns and designs on fabric. Basic cross-
stitching involves making uniform stitches over a grid pattern. As you
progress, you encounter more complex patterns, specialty stitches, and
techniques like fractional stitches or backstitching, which require
precision and attention to detail.
3. Candle Making: Candle making involves melting wax, adding
fragrance and color, and pouring it into molds to create candles.
Simple candle making can be achieved with basic equipment and
techniques like melting and pouring wax into pre-made molds.
However, as you delve into more advanced techniques such as
creating layered candles, incorporating embeds or designs, and
experimenting with different types of wax and wicks, the complexity
increases.
4. Jewelry Making: Jewelry making encompasses various techniques
such as beadwork, wire wrapping, metalworking, and polymer clay
crafting to create wearable art. Beginners can start with basic bead
stringing or simple wire-wrapped jewelry, which require minimal
tools and skills. As you advance, techniques like soldering, stone
setting, metal forging, and intricate bead weaving demand more
specialized tools, knowledge of materials, and craftsmanship.
5.Glassblowing: Glassblowing is the art of shaping molten glass into
various forms using a blowpipe and other tools. It's considered one of
the most complex handicrafts due to the technical skill, precision, and
understanding of glass properties required. Beginners typically start
with simple techniques like gathering, blowing, and shaping basic
forms. However, mastering more advanced techniques such as
creating intricate designs, incorporating color, and working with
different types of glass requires years of practice and expertise
3. Discuss the reasons for practicing economy in materials and
techniques. In what ways can we violate this principle? What are the
instances materials are wasted? How would a violation of this
principle affect the aesthetic quality of a product?
- Practicing the economy in materials and techniques is essential for
several reasons:
Cost Efficiency: Using materials and techniques efficiently helps
reduce production costs, which is particularly important for artisans,
small businesses, and individuals operating on a budget. By
minimizing waste and maximizing the utility of materials, craftsmen
can keep their expenses low and ensure their products remain
competitive in the market.
Environmental Sustainability: Economizing materials and
techniques minimizes the environmental impact of production.
Wasting materials not only contributes to resource depletion but also
increases pollution and waste disposal problems. By practicing the
economy, artisans can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a
more sustainable future.
Skill Development: Working within constraints encourages creativity
and skill development. When artisans are forced to work with limited
resources, they often find innovative solutions and develop new
techniques to overcome challenges. This leads to the refinement of
their craft and the expansion of their skill set.
Appreciation of Craftsmanship: Consumers value products that
demonstrate skillful craftsmanship and attention to detail. By
practicing economy in materials and techniques, artisans can showcase
their expertise and dedication to their craft. This enhances the
perceived value of their products and fosters a greater appreciation for
handmade goods.
There are instances where the principle of economy in materials
and techniques may be violated:
Overproduction: Producing more goods than necessary or using
excessive materials in the production process can lead to wastage.
This often occurs when artisans overestimate demand or fail to plan
their production effectively.
Poor Planning: Insufficient planning or lack of foresight can result in
the underutilization of materials or inefficient use of techniques. This
can lead to unnecessary waste and higher production costs.
Quality Sacrifice: In some cases, artisans may compromise on
material quality or craftsmanship in an attempt to cut costs or speed up
production. This can result in inferior products that fail to meet
customer expectations in terms of durability, aesthetics, or overall
quality.
Instances where materials are wasted include:
Excess Trimmings: When cutting materials such as fabric, leather, or
wood, offcuts or trimmings are generated. Failure to use these scraps
efficiently can result in wastage.
Unused Inventory: Stockpiling excess inventory or materials that are
not used in a timely manner can lead to spoilage or obsolescence,
resulting in wasted resources.
Missteps in Production: Errors or mistakes during the production
process can lead to the rejection of partially completed or finished
products, resulting in wasted materials and labor.
Violation of the principle of economy in materials and techniques
can negatively affect the aesthetic quality of a product in several
ways:
Inconsistencies: Using disparate or mismatched materials can create
inconsistencies in color, texture, or appearance, detracting from the
overall aesthetic appeal of the product.
Lack of Attention to Detail: Rushed production or poor
craftsmanship resulting from cost-cutting measures can lead to sloppy
workmanship and a lack of attention to detail, diminishing the
perceived value of the product.
Shortcuts in Design: Cutting corners in materials or techniques can
compromise the integrity of the design, resulting in products that
appear cheaply made or hastily assembled.
4. What are the sources of frustration of a beginner in handicraft that
stems from not following of the basic principles? Briefly justify each.
- One source of frustration for beginners in handicrafts often arises from
not fully understanding or following basic principles like proper tool
usage, technique, or material selection.
1. Tool Misuse: Beginners might not grasp the correct way to use tools,
leading to inefficient or ineffective crafting. For instance, improper
handling of a sewing machine could result in uneven stitching or
fabric bunching, causing frustration when the desired outcome isn't
achieved.
2. Technique Errors: Ignoring fundamental techniques can lead to
subpar results. For example, in woodworking, not using proper
sanding techniques could leave rough surfaces or uneven edges,
frustrating the crafter who envisioned a smooth, polished finish.
3. Material Mismatch: Choosing inappropriate materials for a project
can result in unexpected difficulties. Imagine knitting with yarn that's
too thick for the needles or painting with low-quality brushes that shed
bristles onto the canvas. These mismatches can lead to frustration as
the project progresses.
4. Lack of Patience: Many basic principles in handicrafts require
patience to master. Whether it's allowing paint to dry between layers
or patiently waiting for glue to set, impatience can lead to mistakes
and frustration.
5. Skipping Steps: Beginners may sometimes overlook or rush through
foundational steps, such as measuring and cutting accurately in sewing
or following a pattern precisely in knitting. Skipping these crucial
steps often leads to errors and frustration when the project doesn't turn
out as expected.
5. What would you need to focus on and be motivated? Describe your
ideal handicraft workplace.
- Inspired, well-maintained, cozy, and orderly—these are the
characteristics of the perfect handcraft workspace. To keep focus and
motivation high, it should have well-defined goals and progress
tracking. One way to reduce strain and weariness is to create a well-
designed office with cozy chairs, good lighting, and work tables. Good
tools and supplies make crafts more enjoyable. Examples include
well-made scissors and comfortable crochet hooks. Togetherness can
be cultivated in a creative community that offers spaces for group
work and workshops. Contentment can also be raised by adding
personal touches like encouraging sayings or artwork. To stay
motivated and focused, set clear goals and monitor your progress.
