Mirror project

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Brief:

Appearance is an important part of our everyday lives. A small mirror in ones bedroom is a very useful item to have for maintaining ones appearance.

Design and make a mirror which could be used in a bedroom. It should be designed with its intended user in mind and be stylish and aesthetically appealing in appearance.

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Research and investigation

This section explores some of the main elements of the design process involved in solving a brief, and producing an artefact. The chart across outlines the design process sequence followed (some additional elements are required).

You can view the design process for this project by clicking on either the powerpoint or PDF version below.

View PDF version

Download powerpoint version

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Sample solution:

Project outline:

This project is based on a simple frame design using corner halving joints which contains the mirror. This frame is then connected to two podiums using dowels allowing it to rotate. The podiums are connected to the base with corner (single) dovetail joint. The coping saw and plane have been used to enhance the appearance with curves and chamfers.

Duration:

This project should take approximately 7 double lessons depending on the ability level of the group, situation and the resources available.

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Pupil's individual design input:

Within the framework of the sample solution shown above there is scope for individual design input in relation to aesthetics and jointing of the artefact. The design of the podiums for one can be altered as per the students design and carving or wood burning used to embellish the project (see examples of students work below). Also the jointing technique for the frame can be selected by the pupils based on their knowledge of the joint's applications, advantages and disadvantages, etc (see practice joints section of this website). Some alternative frame joints are shown below