Create an open ended, biodegradable toy that is tough enough for daily wear and tear but also quickly compostable for pre-k age children (4-5)

THE PROBLEM

1.5 billion pounds of toys are thrown away each year (That's the equivalent of 5,000 747 airplanes)

THE SOLUTION: MYCELIUM

Mycelium is the root-like structure of fungi, which form an elaborate network that binds material together

90% of toys are made from plastic

DESIGN OBJECTIVE

For the sketches, I wanted to ideate around the idea of open-ended play. To create a system that could be played with in a multitude of ways

Growing conditions not suitable for mycelium

THE DESIGN

FIRST SKETCHES

Substrate was too dense which caused the mycelium to not grow throughout

Switched to wooden dowels because the mechanical connection was too inconsistent

I added wooden connector blocks for more open-ended play

CHALLENGES

USER TESTING

My nephew building a robot with a control panel, complete with a robot voice

FINAL SHOTS

THANK YOU