Timeless Versatility: A Reversible Necklace from Scrap Wood and Embellished Materials

Abstract

The fashion jewellery industry contributes to resource depletion and waste through the continuous production of single-purpose accessories. Sustainable design approaches that extend product utility and make productive use of waste materials can contribute to more responsible consumption. This paper presents “Timeless Versatility”, a reversible necklace primarily crafted from scrap wood generated during furniture manufacturing and combined with selected stone and fabric embellishments. Designed for a professional model, one side of the necklace provides a bold and glamorous aesthetic suitable for runway shows, while the reverse side offers a refined, textured appearance for evening wear. Inspired by the peacock (Pavo cristatus), the design translates the bird’s layered plumage, iridescent colours, and natural elegance into a contemporary accessory. A user-centred design process involving customer research, concept development, material exploration, feasibility assessment, and iterative prototyping was followed. Handcrafted techniques including wood shaping, surface finishing, stone setting, beadwork, and embroidery were employed. Reversible construction enables one product to serve two styling requirements, potentially reducing the need for multiple accessories. The final prototype demonstrated the feasibility of integrating scrap wood with embellished materials to create a multifunctional fashion accessory. Initial client feedback supported the aesthetic and functional suitability of the prototype, while the study also identifies the need for further user testing, formal durability assessment, and environmental impact comparison. The study demonstrates a design-based

approach to giving additional value to furniture- manufacturing wood residues through contemporary

jewellery development.