Study of an object

 OBJECT SELECTED: Folding Fan

Why a Folding Fan?

The folding fan is familiar yet mechanically interesting. It operates on a hinge mechanism, with ribs that expand in a radial formation when opened and fold neatly into a stack when closed. Its movement is smooth and satisfying, and it offers plenty of opportunity to explore geometry, symmetry, and manual rendering techniques.

Object Study & Research

I began by observing a real folding fan and noting the following components:

• Ribs (Sticks): Thin pieces of wood, plastic, or metal that form the structure.
• Guard Sticks: The outermost ribs,

 usually thicker for protection.

• Leaf: The fabric or paper attached to the ribs that creates the actual fan surface.
• Pivot Pin: A small fastener at the bottom that connects all the ribs and allows rotation.
• Movement: The ribs rotate around the pivot point in an arc, evenly spaced when open.

Visual Breakdown

Rendering Techniques Used

• Hatching was applied to ribs for dimensionality.

•  I used watercolor pencils for a soft yet vibrant look .

• mechanical pen was used for outlining 

Key Takeaways

• The folding fan is a brilliant example of functional minimalism — very few parts, yet efficient design.

• Combining technical drawings with expressive sketches improved my ability to communicate both structure and function.

• Manual rendering deepened my appreciation for materials and surface textures, especially in objects that fold or move.