Branch
Rethinking The Pencil
The humble pencil has remained almost unchanged for centuries. Branch is an attempt to rethink what a pencil could be, combining sustainability with a more thoughtful design. Its concept was inspired by the way people use sticks and branches to write messages in the sand — a reminder of the simple, tactile, and intimate nature of mark-making.
Objectives
While pencils are ubiquitous tools, most are made from virgin wood and graphite, often generating waste in production. Branch aims to explore how everyday objects can be reimagined to be both environmentally friendly and engaging for the user. The project sought to test whether recycled materials could produce pencils that feel familiar yet offer a new design perspective.
Approach
The design process focused on sustainability and hands-on experimentation. Recycled pencils could be manufactured by collecting used pencil stubs and other wood waste, grinding them into small pieces, and mixing them with natural binders. The mixture is then pressed into pencil-shaped molds and finished to create a usable writing tool. This process minimizes waste and gives discarded materials a new life.
In parallel, form and ergonomics was explored. Branch pencils were designed to feel more organic, evoking the tactile qualities of natural branches while remaining functional for everyday writing tasks.
Key Insights
- Sustainability matters — people appreciated learning that the pencil was made from recycled materials, which added value beyond the act of writing.
- Form impacts experience — subtle changes in shape and texture made a familiar tool feel new and more engaging.
- Connection to nature — evoking natural forms like sticks and branches strengthened the emotional connection between the user and the product.
Outcomes
Branch successfully demonstrated that even simple, everyday objects like pencils can be reimagined for sustainability and engagement. The project couod produce a line of recycled pencils that are functional, aesthetically distinct, and environmentally friendly. Users reported enjoying the tactile experience and the story behind the product, highlighting the potential for small design interventions to create meaningful connections with everyday tools.
Impact
Beyond the product itself, Branch provides a proof-of-concept for incorporating recycled materials into everyday stationery. It encourages designers to think creatively about material reuse, while reminding users that even familiar objects can be rethought to reduce waste and enhance the human experience.