Beechwood Spatula
A flow form spatula cut from a 12" x 4" x 2' block of Beechwood.
Table of Contents
Orthographic Sketches
To make a flow form spatula, I first started by sketching the top and side views, to be projected onto a rectangular prism to visualize the final form.
top view
side view
I experimented with form and flow of curvature and used either a curved line to guide the forms, or a straight line for the form to be directed about.
Foam Prototypes
I prototyped my sketches with expanded polystyrene and tooling board.
Prototype 1
With a guiding line, the spatula curves inwards as you hold it to the pan, so you can keep your hand parallel to the pan without needing to twist your arm inward to use the spatula. However, the curved guiding line doesn’t provide ample control and is unintuitive. This spatula helped me understand the translation from 2D to 3D better, and understand that it might be better to have a guiding line that's straight instead of curved to be more ergonomic.
Prototype 2
The handle and top edge offset each other, creating a continuous line that will carry through the form into the user’s forearm, extending the axis of rotation from the arm to the tip of the spatula. The guiding line provides a more clear axis or rotation than the previous prototype. There is much to be improved, starting with a continuation of the straight line through the side profile, as well as mirroring the top view of the spatula to create a right-handed version.
Prototype 3
To create more cohesion between the top and side views, I created unified points of diversion to align the top and side views. I also tilted the side view to elongate the thin section of short wood grain in the middle, in hopes of strengthening the integrity of this spatula. I created fillets on the organic curves of the spatula, and accentuated the corners along the directional and parallel lines.
Final Fabrication
I taped the exact orthographic top and side views to the Beechwood block. I then used the bandsaw to cut out the top view, taped the wood back together, then cut the side view. I used files, rasps, and sandpaper to add fillets and chamfers
I added more surface area to the top flipping portion. I also allotted even more room for sanding.
Finished Product
