Samuel Coendet and Lea Gerber of Atelier Volvox took on a neat little project to rescue neglected stuffed animals. Collecting the playthings from various nursery schools and toy shops, the pair wanted to give these used dolls a second life. Unexpected, however, was their method in revitalizing the plush animals, as the two went on to cut open each creature and invert them inside out before re-stuffing them and sewing them back up again.
The Atelier Volvox designers called their project ‘Outsiders,’ making it heartbreaking to look at these images of raggedy, but lovable toys. Perhaps the most bizarre part of each animal’s new look is their inverted eyes, which are now gruesome-looking pegs. Each Outsiders plush doll comes with a unique story, and the collection actually received the Recycling Design Preis 2012.
Inverted Plush Playthings
Atelier Volvox Designers Took Stuffed Animals and Turned Them Inside Out
Trend Themes
1. Inverted Plush Toys - The creation of inside-out stuffed animals and toys could lead to new avenues of eco-friendly upcycling for used products.
2. Playful Upcycling - Upcycling in the toy industry could prove to be an innovative way to give old toys a new life.
3. Sustainability in Toy Design - Inverting plush toys can be seen as a sustainable approach towards toy design.
Industry Implications
1. Toy Industry - Toy companies and designers can integrate innovative upcycling methods, such as inverting plush toys, to create new collections or promote eco-friendly practices.
2. Sustainable Design Industry - The concept of inverted plush toys can also influence designers and companies to incorporate sustainable practices in other industries, including furniture and household fixtures.
3. Eco-friendly Products Industry - Creating more eco-friendly products through upcycling can open up a new market in the sustainable products industry.