I designed this product for the SVA Made in Yame program, which was created in collaboration with the Museum of Modern Art Store. I traveled to Yame, a small town in Japan known for its traditionally trained craft masters. Along with a delegation of designers, we visited the studios of over a dozen artisans.

The objective was to design products that showcased the craftsmen's skills while being suitable for distribution across MoMA's wholesale and retail channels. I sketched this product in Japan and created the physical prototype at my office at NewLab after visiting a traditional arrow maker in Yame.

Traditional Japanese arrows are made using silk thread wound around the shaft to securely hold the feathers and tip. The vibrant colors of the silk also help differentiate each archer’s arrows, with each striped pattern unique to its owner.

I adapted the technique to adorn an umbrella — designing and 3D printing spoke tips, a handle, and a tip, all wrapped in silk thread. I also incorporated a double canopy to introduce a matching burst of color on the inside of the umbrella.

When closed, the silk threads subtly hint at the bold colors within, helping the owner identify their umbrella. When opened, the vivid interior transforms gloomy days into something bright, offering both function and a striking visual effect for the user.