Last Stand: Giving Dying Pencils a Longer Life

A Fancy, 3D Printed, Dynamic, and Ergonomic Office Gadget

Ospina, a creative concept designer, was inspired by his love for sketching and the conceptual start that comes with hand analog sketching. He found himself constantly using pencils and noticed that they often became difficult to grip and use after being sharpened multiple times. Instead of discarding these partially used pencils, Ospina wanted to create something that would allow them to be used until the very last bit, all while maintaining an elegant and premium design.

The Last Stand is designed in three phases. The centerpiece, made of CNC machined aluminum alloy, helps reposition the pencil every time it is sharpened, ensuring that the usable part is always accessible. This dynamic center piece also serves as a playful element that stimulates creativity, making it a perfect tool for creative designers. The centerpiece is trapped inside the one-piece body, which is 3D printed using either DLP or SLA technology. The two body parts are then fused together using hand-applied resin, resulting in a seamless and aesthetically pleasing design.

With a 15mm overall diameter and a height of 150mm, the Last Stand is compact and portable, making it suitable for any workspace. Its unique design and functionality make it a standout office gadget that combines practicality with style.

The Last Stand is not only a solution to the problem of wasted pencils but also a statement on the value of reusing and repurposing objects. By giving dying pencils a last stand, Ospina has created a product that challenges the notion of disposable items and encourages users to see the beauty and potential in objects that are often overlooked.

This project, which started in February 2023 in Cali, Colombia, is currently being showcased on Ospinaumbreitdesign's Instagram platform, with a focus on pre-sales. The Last Stand has already garnered significant attention and positive feedback, with many people expressing their desire to acquire one for their own dying pencils.

The Last Stand has been recognized for its innovation and practicality, receiving the Iron A' Design Award in 2023. This prestigious award is given to well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. The Last Stand's integration of industry best practices, competent technical characteristics, and its contribution to reducing waste and optimizing usability have made it a deserving recipient of this accolade.

With the Last Stand, Juan Ospina has not only created a functional and aesthetically pleasing office gadget but has also sparked a conversation about the value of repurposing and reimagining everyday objects. By giving dying pencils a last stand, Ospina has shown that even the smallest changes can make a significant impact on reducing waste and promoting sustainability.