KnuckBuds

Recent media coverage on sexual violence elicited great distress amongst my community of peers. I attempted to purchase self-defense knuckles online for my female family members and colleagues, but California forbade shipment of such items. So, I took the matter into my own hands.

Organization

Personal project

Project Date

2016

Role

3D, Packaging Design

The Product

I first collected measurements of the index and middle fingers of my peers. After arriving at a comfortable average for the finger holes, I sketched various shapes around them. I needed to include a point with a base strong enough to sustain pressure so the acrylic would not snap from use. After creating four different characters, I laser cut the knuckles and dubbed them "KnuckBuds." They appeared as friendly keychains, but if needed, they would be used to fend off attackers.

Reflection

Understanding the danger of possessing these weapons and the harm that they could inflict on others, I prefaced the gifts as only decorative keychains to serve as reminders to stay strong and vigilant. If needed, the were only to be used in dire situations. I warned that they should be far away from young children.

I have pondered the thought of refining the KnuckBuds and producing more of them in the future. I entertained the idea and made packaging that they possibly would be housed in.