Rock Trowel: A Seamless and Ergonomic Gardening Tool

Award-winning sand-casted design by Yu-hsuan Chen

The Rock Trowel stands out from other gardening tools due to its fabrication approach. Designed to be made through sand casting, this trowel is born from dirt (sand) and then serves in dirt. The sand casting process allows for the creation of a seamless and smooth shape, disregarding undercuts and demolding problems.

One of the key features of the Rock Trowel is its ergonomic design. The handle and blade are seamlessly blended together, ensuring a comfortable grip and preventing discomfort even after long hours of use. The hollow handle design not only provides ventilation to the palm but also makes it suitable for hanging, allowing for easy storage.

Made from a light, hard-anodized alloy, the Rock Trowel is both durable and lightweight. Its dimensions of 102mm*290mm*20mm make it a versatile tool for various gardening tasks.

During the design process, Yu-hsuan Chen faced the challenge of achieving the perfect morphology for the trowel. To overcome this, the designer spent time creating blue foam models to experiment with different shapes before moving on to the digital 3D modeling stage.

The Rock Trowel project started in November 2017 in Brooklyn and was completed within one month. Before starting the design, Yu-hsuan Chen visited a jewelry production studio in Manhattan to witness the sand casting process firsthand. This experience inspired the designer to create a tool that is not only functional but also carries a deeper meaning of being born from the earth.

The Rock Trowel has received recognition for its outstanding design. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Hardware, Power, and Hand Tools Design category in 2018. This prestigious award is given to well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements.

With its seamless design, ergonomic features, and unique fabrication approach, the Rock Trowel is a testament to the intersection of art, design, and functionality in the world of gardening tools.