Sue was designed to address usability and desirability issues in current mainstream sewing machines. It aims to attract a new generations of users to subtly prompt mainstream sustainable lifestyle change.

Questionnaire

Many users of all levels were questioned to identify problem areas.

EthnographicResearch

Ethnographic studies were carried out with a range of different users to identify functional issues.

Live Wall

A live wall was maintained to map out thoughts throughout the project. Initially, shown on the left, the wall was used to map out functional problem areas and identify solutions. Later, the wall was used to integrate aesthetic considerations with the chosen functional solutions to create the final product.

Character

Small details have been added to enhance the character of the machine. Details, such as giving it a name, a name tag, feet, tactility, detailed surfaces, colour breaks and detailing beneath the surface.

Crafted Surfaces

Carefully created surfaces are used throughout; these aim to instil a feeling of craft in a mass produced product.

Free-arm

Lower side panels are removable. This, combined with the cavity formed by the foot pedal housing creates a free-arm to enable the user to stitch sleeves and trouser legs.

Storage

The removable side panels open to provide storage for the users sewing accessories.

Vertical Storage

Sue can store vertically to take up less physical deskspace.

Stitch Display

The stitch options have been simplified and included on a bi-stable touch display. Here stitch width and length can be simply adjusted with a flick of the finger, then the stitch type locked in.

This means variable length straight stitches and variable length and width zig-zag stitches can all be selected from a single small display.

Thread in Nose

The thread spool stores in the nose. This keeps the working area tidy, creates a shorter threading distance and creates less chance of the thread tangling.

Tactility

5mm thick navy blue wool felt is used to physically connect the two ‘operational’ parts of the device. This was specifically chosen to give a feeling of tactility and character to a device that is normally perceived as technical, complex and cold.

Functional Felt

The felt has a magnetic section to hold scissors and un-pickers, but can also be used as a pincushion to keep the working area tidy.