Circular Tyvek Pillows for Art Objects in Storage
Purpose
A reproducible storage system consisting of support components in standardized shapes and sizes was developed to respond to targeted collection-based needs at the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum. Primary stability issues were first identified and categorized and support components were designed and manufactured to:
• Stabilize vulnerable objects on mobile and static shelving
• Economize shelf space
• Promote visibility and access
• Provide a mechanism for safe object handling
• Economize supplies and resources
• Encourage sustainability through re-use
Author
Kate Wight Tyler
Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum
2 E. 91st St.
New York NY 10128
212-849-8423
wightk@si.edu
Photo / Illustrator Credits: Kate Wight Tyler
Publication: 2017
Description
Decorative Arts on compact mobile shelving required weighted supports for rounded and narrow bases [Fig. 1]. The most useful and innovative design was Circular Tyvek pillows filled with a mixture of polypropylene pellets and glass beads for weight [Fig. 2]. The pillows were open circles made from a pattern 10 ¼” in diameter [Fig. 3].
Figure 1. Circular Tyvek pillows supporting objects on compact mobile shelving
Figure 2. Circular Tyvek pillows filled with a mixture of polypropylene pellets and glass beads for weight
Figure 3. Template for circular Tyvek pillows filled with a mixture of polypropylene pellets and glass beads for weight
Materials, Tools & Supplies
- Circle cutter
- Tyvek (Soft, 14M) spunbonded olefin fabric
- Guterman sew-all 100% polyester thread
- Sewing machine
- Polypropylene pellets
- Glass balls, 4mm
- Funnel
Construction
- Use template [Fig. 3] to create pattern using circle cutter and durable board (approx. 10pt)
- Trace from pattern onto Tyvek and cut two Tyvek circles
- Using sewing machine, stich edges and one end closed (double seam recommended)
- Turn shape inside out and fill using a funnel – fill the pillow 75% full using a mixture of polypropylene pellets: glass balls, 70:30
- Sew shut open end (double seam recommended)