Bakal
A carabiner inspired by Filipino forms, blending cultural heritage with everyday functionality for a durable, distinctive design.
Duration
2 Weeks
2 Weeks
Tools
Sketching
Adobe Illustrator
Rhino
Sketching
Adobe Illustrator
Rhino
Team
Solo
Solo
Mood Board
This project began with an object I carry every day. A carabiner is often reduced to utility; something meant to clip, hold, and disappear. But as an everyday carry, it becomes visible, worn, and personal, offering an opportunity to express more than function.
This project began with an object I carry every day. A carabiner is often reduced to utility; something meant to clip, hold, and disappear. But as an everyday carry, it becomes visible, worn, and personal, offering an opportunity to express more than function.
R1 Rough Sketches
I drew inspiration from Brutalist architecture and historical Filipino weapons. The weapons were a symbol of resistance, and I wanted the carabiner to carry a sense of strength and presence, giving a small, everyday object more meaning.
R2 Rough Prototyping
Early prototypes focused on gate mechanisms, proportions, and how the object felt in the hand. Testing revealed what worked, what felt awkward, and what could be simplified, helping guide the design toward a more confident and purposeful form.
I drew inspiration from Brutalist architecture and historical Filipino weapons. The weapons were a symbol of resistance, and I wanted the carabiner to carry a sense of strength and presence, giving a small, everyday object more meaning.
R2 Rough Prototyping
Early prototypes focused on gate mechanisms, proportions, and how the object felt in the hand. Testing revealed what worked, what felt awkward, and what could be simplified, helping guide the design toward a more confident and purposeful form.
R3 Rough Cad
Through refinement, I explored materials and adjusted shapes to balance usability with character. The design became cleaner, smoother, and more intentional, with details that rethink the users interaction.
The final carabiner is an everyday object you can carry with pride. It performs reliably while also expressing personality and cultural connection, turning something familiar into a tool that feels personal and considered.
Through refinement, I explored materials and adjusted shapes to balance usability with character. The design became cleaner, smoother, and more intentional, with details that rethink the users interaction.
The final carabiner is an everyday object you can carry with pride. It performs reliably while also expressing personality and cultural connection, turning something familiar into a tool that feels personal and considered.