My XFAB Assignments

About Me

Hello! I'm Xiaoyi.

Check out my work:

Cardboard

I made a console table out of cardboard because I needed a place to put my keys after moving into an empty apartment. It was a simple design with just a few rectangles, but the process was harder than expected. One of the legs ended up shorter than the other, so I added extra cardboard to fix it and tucked the uneven side out of sight.

View more about Cardboard Cardboard project 2
Basketry

I started weaving a little dog head out of wire, but the process was slow and tricky, so I simplified it to just the head. The bunny-like ears happened accidentally, but the hand-shaped texture of the wire gives it a unique look. It was a challenge, but the imperfections make it feel personal and fun.

View more about Basketry Basketry project 1
Plushies

Because I have sinus issues and go through a lot of tissues, I made a dog-shaped tissue bag using old shopping bags. It was an intuitive process, sewing first and cutting later, and I stuffed it with leftover scraps for a sustainable and practical solution. It’s both cute and functional!

View more about Plushies Plushie project 1
3D Scanning

I scanned a thumbs-up figure, a coffee cup, and a plant moving in the wind. The coffee cup turned out great, but the figure was less detailed, and the plant scan was glitchy in an interesting way. These experiments made me think about the balance between capturing reality and embracing imperfections.

View more about 3D Scanning 3D Scanning project 1 3D Scanning project 2
Additive Making

I wanted to make a vase using hot glue, but the material’s softness led to an unexpected result—a toilet sculpture! Working with hot glue felt spontaneous and playful, especially compared to the precise process of 3D printing. Both methods challenged me in different ways.

View more about Additive Making Additive Making project 1
Additive Making (2)

A 3D printed balloon dog.

View more about Additive Making (2) Additive Making project 3 Additive Making project 4
Molding + Casting

I used hot glue and plastic wrap to create organic, textured shapes. Each cast came out a little different, showing how materials can evolve through the process. The imperfections made each piece feel unique, even though they were made with the same technique.

View more about Molding + Casting Molding project 1
Etching + Engraving

Inspired by thermal imaging nail art, I layered bright colors on paper and filed them to reveal patterns. Dust and layering issues made it harder to get the results I wanted, but I added more details to give the design extra depth. It was a messy but rewarding process!

View more about Etching + Engraving Etching project 1
Electronics Design + Fab

A group project that is difficult to describe in simple words...

View more about Electronics Design + Fab Electronics project 1
Sensing + Actuation

I learned how to make an alarm system using the ultrasonic sensor and a buzzer!

View more about Sensing + Actuation Sensing project 1