A Transformation: Vest to Backpack!

I was challenged to create a garment that transforms into a carrying case of some kind, in my 3D, Body as Form, class. I first made the muslin vest pattern then started the daunting transformation by returning to something I knew well, origami.  I figured some thoughtful folding and zippers could create the interesting streamlined bag I was envisioning!  

Can you incorporate the element of surprise (transformation) into your next project?! See how I did it below.

Enjoy,

Margo Isadora

p.s. click on photos to enlarge

Muslin pattern with basted on zippers after my origami play worked out!

Basted muslin backpack

The 'Origami' Instructions are easy enough!

Views of my drapey vest!

(As one can see in the directions the grey strip at the bottom of the vest was a design element that also helped clarify the first folding directions. Transformative design needs to function!)

All zipped up... no vest to be seen!

A delicious drape

She can't wait till the weather's cool so she can be worn again!

Record Dress!

The final assignment in my 3D 'Body as Form' class was to create an outfit using only recycled materials.  Having worked with Records on a smaller scale (bowls and pencil holders) I wanted to give them a try.  After trial and error in the workshop, with a heat gun, I ended up creating a strapless bodice out of 4 large records that snaps closed.   The elastic waist skirt made from ironed black trash bags, mimics the ruffle of the 45s on the trim.  The record look was received well and my peers also had some pretty unique solutions! See below for my process and a peek into our crit today. 

Continue to create,

Margo Isadora

My past experiments with records! Selling at the Hester St Fair!

Melting 45s in the shop.

Trying to envision it...

My first shot was unfortunately a no go.
Too much color for my teacher's taste!

A gradation of color compromise!

Before I knew it, it was time for the crit!

Asli with her cardboard, CD look!

Front

A sexy superhero look made from energy drinks!

Close up!

Queen of Cards!

Record LBD :)

Parsons Foundation Work

Dreaming in Color
Digital Self Portrait
32"X40" 2D Design

As my first semester of school comes to a close I wanted to share some of my favorite projects from the last few months.  My four studio classes this semester taught me more about the principals of design, and the importance of process and presentation that I could have ever imagined.  I was introduced to Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop in my 2 Dimensional Design class, and realize how powerful and useful those tools are.

I can't wait to see what the new year has in store for me!

Enjoy, 

Margo Isadora   

Dinosaur Drawing at the Museum of Natural History
18"X24" Drawing

Abstracted Dinosaur Bones
18"X24" Drawing

Honeycomb Inspired Sheet metal Polyhedron
8"X4"X3" 3D Design

Honeycomb Expanded, 3D Design

Volume Born from String
4"X4"X4" foam core and thread model, 3D Design

Technical Drawing, 3D Design

Finished Plexi and Fishing Line Model, 3D Design

MIS Logo
4"X4" 2D Design

Child's Door Sign Design
10" Working from Basic Helvletica Font
2D Design

Self Portrait in Chelsea, 2D Design

Pentooled Portrait on Adobe Illustrator, 2D Design

Painted Grayscale Portrait, 2D Design

Collaged Portrait of a Textured Grayscale, 2D Design

See some of my past work here or here.