Ioana Maria Caramiciu
Mental health issues are rising among young generations, with stress, anxiety and burnout becoming prevalent concerns. While fidgeting tools are widely used to relieve stress, many existing designs lack sustained user engagement and often remain separate from daily life. This project aims to create fidgeting tools that seamlessly integrate into everyday environments, offering tactile and dynamic stress relief through 4D-printed textiles. These materials are designed to change shape when manipulated, providing a continuous and unobtrusive interaction that supports mental well-being.
In a digital world, can design reconnect us with tangible calm?
The project utilises a novel fabrication technique—3D printing on pre-stretched fabrics—to produce interactive fidgeting tools that respond dynamically to touch. These tools are designed with user preferences in mind, incorporating elements such as squeezing and popping interactions, which have been identified as the most effective for stress relief. The material exploration includes various fabrics, such as velvet and lycra, and the shapes are carefully tailored to provide stable and engaging feedback. Testing revealed that users engage with these tools unconsciously, finding them helpful in managing stress during routine tasks like working or studying.
This project offers a new approach to fidgeting tools by embedding them into textiles, making stress relief a part of everyday interactions. While still in development, the potential applications extend beyond individual use to broader contexts like workplace environments, schools, or therapy settings. The project highlights how the combination of design, technology, and user-centred research can lead to practical solutions for mental health challenges, contributing to well-being in both private and public spaces
