Clipstone: Transforming the Ordinary into Extraordinary

A Unique Paperclip Design by Mauricio Navarro

Navarro drew inspiration from Peru's ancient folk art tradition when conceptualizing Clipstone. The design had to be scalable, with low-cost production and high turnover, making it viable for craft organizations with limited resources. The goal was to create a product that showcased the beauty of stone as a handmade material while maintaining a fresh and catchy appeal.

What sets Clipstone apart is its transformation of an ordinary object into a precious and unique item. The meticulous manufacturing process and the use of semi-precious gemstones elevate the humble clothes peg into a refined paperclip. Each package contains five different colors of gemstones, each with its own unique properties that promote positive energy flow.

Clipstone is crafted using a manual stone carpentry technique. The materials used include soapstone in colors such as ocre red, ocre yellow, turquoise blue, serpentine in green hues, and Ecuadorian jade in green. With a maximum production capacity of 4000 units per month, the clip's dimensions are 70 x 15 x 10 mm, while the packaging measures 110 x 85 x 35 mm.

The Clipstone project was realized in Pacasmayo, a coastal town in northern Peru. It was part of a larger initiative commissioned by the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism to support sustainable and socially responsible development. The design aimed to revitalize the dwindling stone craft industry in the area, which had seen a significant decline in the past five years.

One of the main challenges faced during the project was the need to change the mindset of artisans accustomed to traditional folk work. In a country like Peru, where cultural values and work discipline can be a daily challenge, introducing a new design approach required careful navigation. However, by highlighting the unique features of non-industrial products and targeting a middle-income market, the Clipstone design aimed to breathe new life into the craft industry.

Clipstone has received recognition for its exceptional design. In 2015, it was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Art and Stationery Supplies category. This prestigious award is given to designs that meet professional and industrial requirements, integrating industry best practices and competent technical characteristics.

Clipstone is not just a paperclip; it is a testament to the power of design to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. With its blend of nostalgia, elegance, and craftsmanship, this unique design brings joy and beauty to the everyday office environment.