Tag Archives: Product Design

Faye Toogood and Italian Craftsmanship Unite in the Squash Collection

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Imagine softness. Imagine boldness. Imagine playfulness. These words resonate deeply within the new Squash Collection, a daring collaboration with British designer Faye Toogood. This collection goes beyond traditional furniture; it explores form, comfort, and joy in design. The pieces invite you to sink into their plush cushions and relieve the day’s stresses. Each item, from armchairs to side tables, radiates a timeless, cutting-edge sense of whimsy and luxury. Beyond simply providing a place to sit, it’s about experiencing a piece of art that is also incredibly comfortable. These creations challenge you to rethink what furniture can be.

Designer: Faye Toogood + Poltrona Frau

An Unlikely Collaboration

When Poltrona Frau, a brand synonymous with Italian leather craftsmanship, met Faye Toogood, known for her unconventional design approach, the outcome was bound to be extraordinary. For over a century, this maker of luxurious leather goods has been crafting everything from high-end furniture to car interiors for Ferrari. Toogood, with her background in art history and editorial design, brought a fresh, sculptural perspective to the collaboration. Their partnership, while unexpected, highlights the incredible synergy of creative minds coming together.

Faye Toogood

Describing the collection as “English Folk with Italian Horsepower,” Toogood captures the essence of this partnership. Part of the 2024 Imagine Collection, the project encourages us to visualize our desires and shape our reality through creativity and design. This venture blends Toogood’s bold approach with Poltrona Frau’s tradition of exquisite craftsmanship, resulting in both functional and artistic pieces, merging the best of both worlds.

The Birth of Squash

During her visit to the factory in Tolentino, Italy, Toogood found inspiration in archival pieces from the 1970s and the iconic Vanity Fair chair from the 1930s. This exploration sparked the creation of the Squash armchair, a piece that honors the boldness of historic designs while venturing into new territories. Captivated by the surprising shapes and distinct designs, Toogood crafted a contemporary piece that respects historical roots while embracing contemporariness. The result is a voluptuous, inviting chair that beckons you to sink into its soft folds, seamlessly blending different eras and design philosophies.

The design captures a spontaneous, relaxed gesture, much like a pile of cushions casually arranged. This sense of spontaneity is a hallmark of Toogood’s design philosophy. The chair’s form is bold and gentle, creating an inviting and comforting presence in any space. The wrinkled leather adds a sense of movement and flexibility, enhancing comfort and softness.

Creating this piece meant digging deep into what comfort is and turning that idea into something you can feel. Toogood’s meticulous approach involved lots of experimentation with materials and forms. The result is a chair that is as much a piece of art as it is a functional object. This duality makes the armchair stand out, offering a unique blend of beauty and utility. The vibrant red leather, a nod to the brand’s archival colors, adds a striking visual element that draws the eye and makes a bold statement.

Exploring the Collection

The collection includes a matching ottoman, a side table, mirrors, and rugs alongside the armchair. Each piece reflects Toogood’s sculptural approach and the brand’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The collection, as a whole, embodies a playful yet sophisticated aesthetic, challenging traditional notions of luxury furniture.

The ottoman, designed to complement the armchair, shares the same inviting curves and plush upholstery. It is a standalone piece that enhances the armchair’s comfort and functionality. The ottoman’s design allows versatility, serving as both a footrest and an additional seat. Its soft, enveloping form encourages relaxation, making it an essential component of the collection.

Then there’s the side table, another intriguing piece. It plays with the idea of a soft cushion squashed between two harder blocks, creating a whimsical yet functional design. This playful approach challenges conventional notions of what a side table should look like. The table’s organic shape and cushioned appearance make it a unique addition to any living space, blending functionality with artistic expression.

Mirrors in the collection also reflect this blend of art and utility. The trio of leather-upholstered mirrors echoes the organic lines of the armchair, with smooth glass cushioned in tactile, curving frames. The largest mirror is full-length and can be free-standing or wall-mounted, while the medium mirror is designed for wall mounting, and the smallest mirror is a pocket-sized compact. The frames are upholstered in leather, in colors chosen by Toogood from the brand’s collection. This thoughtful choice of materials and colors adds depth and continuity to the collection, making each piece cohesive.

A Blend of Cultures and Traditions

The Squash Collection beautifully blends English Folk Art with Italian craftsmanship. Toogood’s inspiration from her English heritage is evident in the playful, sculptural forms and the use of hand-painted motifs. The checkerboard rugs, inspired by old English patchwork chairs, capture the rhythm and imperfections of a hand-drawn line. Each square is hand-painted and translated into textiles using the traditional Berber knotting technique making these rugs pieces of art that bring warmth and personality to a room.

The influence of the Italian leather tradition is equally strong, seen in the meticulous leatherwork and commitment to quality. The brand’s heritage of craftsmanship ensures that each piece in the Squash Collection is beautiful but also durable and functional. This collaboration highlights the best of both designers, merging Toogood’s eccentric vision with the brand’s timeless elegance. The result is a collection transcending cultural and artistic boundaries, offering a fresh perspective on contemporary luxury.

This blend of cultures is particularly evident in the mirrors, where Toogood incorporates early English leather folk work elements. The conversation between something hard (the glass) and something soft (the leather frames) creates a dynamic interplay of materials. This approach adds a tactile quality to the mirrors, making the reflective surfaces an interactive pieces of art.

The post Faye Toogood and Italian Craftsmanship Unite in the Squash Collection first appeared on Yanko Design.

These Transparent Headphones with ENC and a $144 price tag pair perfectly with the Nothing Phone

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No, they aren’t the Nothing Headphones we’ve been waiting for all this while… but they are pretty spectacular-looking. Meet the Mondo Headphones by Defunc, a pair of over-ear cans with wireless audio and beefy sound that boast a gorgeous transparent body design. Equipped with clear covers on the left and right, the Mondo Headphones are yet another example of the rise in transparency in design. Whether it’s Nothing launching transparent phones and TWS earbuds, or even Beats making a see-through version of their StudioBuds +, it seems like there’s a rise in companies being more transparent with their consumers… literally. The Mondo Headphones come with a design that bares all, allowing you to see the circuitry, drivers, microphones, and batteries underneath the hood. The headphones come with dual-drivers and dual-mics, Bluetooth 5.2, and Environmental Noise Canceling. Plus, a highly affordable price tag of sub-$150 makes them almost a no-brainer to add to your tech gear collection.

Designer: Defunc Store

Click Here to Buy Now

The Mondo’s design language feels very reminiscent of Nothing x Apple. The headphones themselves are styled with the air of the AirPods Max, boasting metal stems, and comfortably rounded earpieces that cushion you in your own audiosphere. The headphones fold flat too, making them ideal for traveling with, but don’t expect an Apple-style carrying case with these. (Which may as well be a good thing given how unappealing the AirPods Max case is)

The over-ear headphones come with a dual-driver design, delivering balanced full-range audio. Each earpiece is equipped with a 1.6″ and a 0.4″ driver, delivering a respectable frequency range of 20 Hz – 20 kHz for punchy lows, rich mids, and crisp highs. Dual mic arrays also ensure the headphones have great ENC or environmental noise cancellation, allowing you to listen to music, make calls, or even record voice notes with minimal interference from the world around you.

The headphones boast Bluetooth 5.2, offering quick and reliable pairing, and come with a battery that offers 45 hours of constant playback on a full charge – a feature that’s further enhanced by how comfortable the over-ear plus earcups are to wear for long periods of time. The Mondo has 430 hours of standby time, so your battery doesn’t drain too much when not in use (take that, AirPods Max), and a USB-C port lets you charge your headphones from 0-100 in 2 hours.

The Mondo headphones weigh just 9 ounces, undercutting most brands like Microsoft, Sony, Sonos, and Apple which range anywhere from 11 to 13 ounces. The price is a pretty compelling factor too, with a $144.9 tag for a pair of plush headphones with ENC. On the other hand, you do have controls for volume on the Mondo, and there’s a palpable lack of a dedicated button for your phone’s Voice AI like Siri on the AirPods Max. That shouldn’t be a deterrent though, for the budget range. The Mondo Headphones also ship with a USB-C charging cable and a coiled 1/8-inch audio cord for versatile listening options.

Click Here to Buy Now

The post These Transparent Headphones with ENC and a $144 price tag pair perfectly with the Nothing Phone first appeared on Yanko Design.

Raspberry Pi Foundation Launches $70 AI Kit for Pi 5

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A rising tide lifts all boats, they say… and it seems like the AI tide is finally coming to help smaller creators harness the power of new technologies. The Raspberry Pi Foundation just unveiled their latest AI Kit that works with the Pi 5, bringing AI capabilities to hundreds of thousands of creators using the tiny computers to build their own hobby projects or even retail products. The versatile single-board computer has seen seismic growth since it was first introduced in 2012, more than a decade ago. As trends go, Raspberry Pi has also ensured its computers stay relevant, introducing features, capabilities, and modules that keep it on the cutting-edge of budget computer-building.

Developed in collaboration with Hailo, a leader in AI acceleration technology, the Raspberry Pi AI Kit is all about empowering users to build intelligent applications directly on their Raspberry Pi. Imagine creating real-time AI vision applications – object detection, facial recognition, pose estimation, and more – without relying on cloud processing.

Designer: Raspberry Pi Foundation

At the heart of the AI Kit lies the Hailo-8L AI accelerator module. This tiny powerhouse boasts a whopping 13 tera-operations per second (TOPS) of inferencing performance. That translates to real-time processing of complex AI tasks, with minimal power consumption – perfect for battery-powered projects or those seeking eco-friendly solutions.

One of the biggest challenges in AI development can be the complex software integration between cameras and AI frameworks. The Raspberry Pi team has addressed this head-on by simplifying the process. Their rpicam-apps suite now features a post-processing template specifically designed for integrating AI inferencing within the camera pipeline. With the pre-installed Hailo Tappas libraries, crafting advanced AI applications becomes achievable with just a few hundred lines of C++ code.

The Raspberry Pi AI Kit isn’t limited to rpicam-apps. The kit also includes an API that integrates with the GStreamer framework, allowing you to run inference on pre-recorded videos or build custom Python or C/C++ applications. This opens doors for a wider range of AI projects beyond camera-based solutions.

Installing the AI Kit software is a breeze. With just a few package installations through apt and a reboot, you’ll be ready to explore the exciting world of on-device AI within minutes. Their comprehensive getting started guide walks you through the entire process. The Raspberry Pi AI Kit is priced at $70, allowing all creators to tinker with artificial intelligence, building new products and helping grow the small creator community in lock-step with global innovation.

The post Raspberry Pi Foundation Launches $70 AI Kit for Pi 5 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Audemars Piguet [RE]MASTER02: A Modern Homage to a 1960s Classic

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In this week’s Wristwatch Wednesday, I know you’re expecting part two of the watches I’ve regretted selling, which happens to be the AP 1998 Nagano Olympic Special edition. However, this [RE]MASTER02, a contemporary reinterpretation, is equally interesting, so I apologize; you’ll need to wait until next week for that piece while we explore the [RE]MASTER02.

Designer: Audemars Piguet

Since 1875, Audemars Piguet has followed its own path, combining watchmaking tradition with cutting-edge technology and pioneering new materials and designs. Over the years, the manufacturer has used a wide variety of materials, colors, and case forms, ranging from traditional geometries such as the circle, square, and rectangle to more unexpected trapezoidal or octagonal shapes.

Historical Context and Design Evolution

This exploration of form culminated in the early 1960s with a series of asymmetrical watches, all produced in less than ten pieces. During this period, Audemars Piguet also created several models with angular geometric shapes that were ahead of their time. The boundless creativity of these timepieces continues to inspire Audemars Piguet’s watchmakers today.

Model 5159

One of the remarkable pieces from this era is the Model 5159BA, launched in 1960 and produced in just seven pieces. This model is characterized by its asymmetrical 27.5 mm rectangular case crafted from 18-carat yellow gold. The design broke away from traditional watchmaking codes with its unconventional case shape and minimalist dial layout. The 5159BA’s dial features a series of intersecting lines, creating a sense of dynamic tension and movement. This model is currently on display in the Musée Atelier Audemars

Audemars Piguet 5159BA Model, launched in 1960

The asymmetry of the 5159BA laid the groundwork for daring and unconventional designs in subsequent Audemars Piguet creations. Its bold deviation from traditional symmetry in watchmaking challenged the norms and set a precedent for the brand’s willingness to experiment with form and function. The intersecting lines on the dial, creating a dynamic and almost architectural feel, directly influence the modern reinterpretation seen in the [RE]MASTER02’s dial design, which employs geometric patterns to play with light and shadow.

Furthermore, the 5159BA’s minimalist approach, with its lack of extra detail, allowed the quality of materials and the purity of form to take center stage. This philosophy is carried forward in the [RE]MASTER02, where the design remains clean and uncluttered, allowing the unique properties of the sand gold alloy and the intricate parted dial to shine. The emphasis on material and form over decorative elements is a clear throughline from the 5159BA to the modern reinterpretation.

Model 5182

Another notable model from this period is the 5182, which showcases a more conventional round shape but retains the avant-garde spirit with its minimalistic dial and bold use of gold. The luxurious materials contrast the design simplicity, emphasizing the watch’s elegance and the era’s design ethos.

The 5182’s round case, while more traditional in shape compared to the 5159BA, still pushed boundaries through its minimalistic approach and luxurious execution. This model highlighted Audemars Piguet’s ability to balance traditional forms with contemporary design principles, a balance that is pivotal in the [RE]MASTER02. Using a parted dial with a unique brushing finish in the new model echoes the simplicity and elegance of the 5182’s design ethos.

By integrating high-quality materials like gold and focusing on the dial’s aesthetic purity, the 5182 set a standard for the brand’s future designs. The [RE]MASTER02 continues this tradition using the innovative sand gold alloy and a meticulously crafted dial. The modern piece reflects the historical model’s commitment to understated luxury and precision in craftsmanship, ensuring each design element serves a purpose while maintaining an elegant overall appearance.

The restrained use of design elements in the 5182 also influenced the [RE]MASTER02’s approach to watchmaking, where less is more. This philosophy is evident in the clean lines and thoughtful use of space in the new model’s dial and case, ensuring that each detail enhances rather than overwhelms the overall design.

Model 5167

The 5167 further pushes the boundaries with its triangular case, a bold departure from traditional watchmaking forms. This design exemplifies the influence of geometric experimentation with its sharp angles and unadorned surfaces. The dial is straightforward, focusing on functionality and readability, devoid of unnecessary ornamentation.

The 5167’s triangular case is a adherence to avant-garde design and experimentation with unconventional shapes. This bold approach is a direct precursor to the asymmetrical design of the [RE]MASTER02. The willingness to explore and incorporate sharp angles and geometric forms from the 5167’s design is evident in the modern reinterpretation’s case and dial.

The influence seen in the 5167’s unadorned surfaces and functional design translates into the [RE]MASTER02’s aesthetic. The new model’s parted dial and geometric partitions echo the sharp, clean lines of the 5167, emphasizing functionality while creating a visually striking piece. This inspired simplicity allows the watch to make a statement without excessive decoration.

The straightforward dial of the 5167, designed for readability and functionality, set a precedent for the [RE]MASTER02’s approach to its dial design. The modern piece incorporates clear, easy-to-read markers and a layout that prioritizes functionality, ensuring that the aesthetic serves the practical purpose of telling time while delivering a bold visual impact.

[RE]MASTER02: A Contemporary Reinterpretation

The [RE]MASTER02 Selfwinding pays tribute to a unique watch created in 1960 (Model 5159BA). Following in the footsteps of the [RE]Master01, launched in 2020 to reinterpret a rare chronograph from 1943, this new limited edition of 250 pieces features an asymmetrical 41 mm rectangular case in the new 18-carat sand gold alloy launched earlier this year and a “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” parted dial creating unique effects of light and texture.

Combining vintage aesthetics with cutting-edge performance, this new reference is equipped with the Calibre 7129, an extra-thin hour-and-minute movement without date indication, based on the Calibre 7121. The interplay of historical inspiration and modern innovation in the [RE]MASTER02 showcases Audemars Piguet’s dedication to preserving its legacy while pushing the boundaries of contemporary watchmaking.

The asymmetrical case design of the [RE]MASTER02 directly draws from the 5159BA’s unconventional form, highlighting Audemars Piguet’s continued exploration of non-traditional shapes. The new sand gold alloy used in the case introduces a modern twist, with its variable hue adding depth and intrigue to the watch’s appearance. This innovative material pays homage to the past and sets a new standard for luxury watchmaking.

Case and Materials

The [RE]MASTER02 case is entirely crafted in sand gold, a new 18-carat gold alloy whose hue varies between white and pink gold depending on the light and the wrist’s movement. Launched earlier this year on a Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Openworked reference, this new material, which takes its name from sand dunes, is composed of gold, copper, and palladium for a warm appearance. The case measures 41 mm in diameter and 9.7 mm in thickness, providing a modern, substantial presence on the wrist while maintaining an elegant profile.

Audemars Piguet [RE]MASTER02

This innovative sand gold alloy embodies the blend of tradition and modernity that Audemars Piguet is known for. The material’s unique properties, reflecting different hues under varying lighting conditions, add a dynamic element to the watch, ensuring it catches the eye from every angle. The choice of material also highlights the brand’s attentiveness to pioneering new technologies and materials in their designs.

Inspired by historical models, modern craftsmanship techniques bring the case’s asymmetrical design to life. The clean lines and precise angles of the sand gold case enhance its aesthetic appeal and ensure it commands attention as a contemporary piece rooted in the brand’s rich history. The interplay of light on the sand gold surface creates a visually captivating effect reminiscent of the dynamic dial designs of the past.

Dial Design

The [RE]MASTER02 is enriched by a “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” dial that combines different geometries. It’s subdivided into twelve individually machined brass triangles decorated with a linear satin finish before being placed on a brass plate with minuscule feet. The triangles are separated by sand gold partitions that facilitate the reading of the time, creating a striking visual effect that changes with the light. The dial design pays homage to the geometric experimentation of the original 5159BA while introducing modern elements and materials.

With its intricate geometry and meticulous craftsmanship, the parted dial design reflects the brand’s dedication to blending artistic design with functional precision. Using sand gold partitions enhances the dial’s readability and adds a touch of luxury and sophistication. This combination of form and function is a hallmark of Audemars Piguet’s design philosophy.

The “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” dial color is a nod to the historical palette used in past models, while the modern execution ensures it fits seamlessly into contemporary aesthetics. The interplay of light and texture on the dial creates a dynamic and ever-changing visual experience, much like the historical models it draw inspiration from. This blend of historical reference and modern innovation ensures that the [RE]MASTER02 is unique and timeless.

Movement and Technical Specifications

The heart of the [RE]MASTER02 is the Calibre 7129, an extra-thin self-winding movement that focuses on the essentials: hours and minutes. This movement evolves the Calibre 7121, known for its reliability and precision. The lack of a date function preserves the dial’s clean aesthetic, allowing the unique design elements to take center stage.

The Calibre 7129, with its extra-thin profile, ensures the watch maintains an elegant and slim form factor, making it comfortable to wear while retaining a sophisticated look. The focus on essential functions highlights Audemars Piguet’s commitment to precision and reliability, ensuring that the [RE]MASTER02 is a beautiful and highly functional timepiece.

By forgoing a date function, the [RE]MASTER02 stays true to the minimalist design ethos of its historical predecessors. This decision allows the watch’s unique design elements, such as the parted dial and sand gold case, to be the focal points, ensuring the overall aesthetic remains clean and uncluttered. This approach underscores the brand’s philosophy of harmonizing form and function.

Bracelet and Finishing

Complementing the sophisticated case and dial is a blue contrasted alligator strap with an 18-carat sand gold pin buckle. The strap’s rich color and texture add to the watch’s overall luxurious feel, making it an eye-catching addition to any wrist. The choice of an alligator strap enhances the watch’s elegance and provides durability and comfort.

The blue color of the strap complements the “Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50” dial, creating a cohesive and visually pleasing look. The contrast between the blue strap and the sand gold case further highlights the watch’s unique design elements, ensuring it attracts attention from every angle. This attention to detail in the choice of materials and colors reflects Audemars Piguet’s dedication to craftsmanship.

The finishing touches, such as the 18-carat sand gold pin buckle, ensure that every aspect of the [RE]MASTER02 exudes luxury and sophistication. This meticulous attention to detail in both design and execution ensures that the watch looks stunning and feels exceptional on the wrist, providing a genuinely luxurious wearing experience.

The post Audemars Piguet [RE]MASTER02: A Modern Homage to a 1960s Classic first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Japanese-Inspired Cooking Accessories To Bring Minimalist Functionality To Your Kitchen

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Japanese design has a soft place in my heart, and for good reason. It is quintessentially functional, thoughtful, and pretty-looking too! I have a soft spot for Japanese product designs as they always manage to be – simple, sophisticated, and high-value. I love incorporating Japanese products in my home space, they have such a soothing effect and can add an elegant touch to any home. I also enjoy using Japanese kitchen appliances and tools. Not only are they adorable to look at and gentle to use, but they’re also high on functionality and very rarely give you any trouble. They’re foolproof designs that you can depend on to tackle your cooking prep and other kitchen tasks, and we’ve curated some top-notch Japanese kitchen tools for you!

1. Precision Ceramic Sashimi Knife

Dubbed the Precision Ceramic Sashimi Knife, this kitchen tool is the epitome of Japanese craftsmanship and a revolutionary design. It is created with care, thoughtfulness, and advanced technology. This exceptional knife is designed to elevate the culinary art of sashimi, allowing it to serve as an important tool for professional chefs and culinary lovers.

Click Here to Buy Now: $299.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The sleek ceramic knife lets you cut through delicate sashimi with ease, without damaging the soft pieces of fish. It functions with effortless ease and precision. It features a lightweight and sharp blade, and the use of ceramic requires minimal maintenance and doesn’t require constant sharpening.

What we like

  • Slices through sashimi with the finesse of an expert Japanese swordsman
  • Helps in preparing aesthetically appealing and delicious dishes

What we dislike

  • Fragile as compared to steel knives
  • It can be difficult to sharpen if the need arises

2. Mitsubishi Bread Oven

Named the Mitsubishi Bread Oven, this waffle maker-looking toaster will prepare the perfect toast for you. It has a classy veneer brown appearance, which seems to be right out of the ’80s. The toaster features a sealed thermal-insulated structure, letting you toast the perfect toast without releasing any moisture.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Bread Oven features two plates that can handle temperatures as high as 500 degrees Fahrenheit. The plates are quite handy, as they seal the bread slice and transfer the heat to it, preparing a soft and fluffy slice of toast for you, that isn’t dry at all.

What we like

  • Features four handy cooking settings – Toast, Frozen Toast, Topping, and French Toast
  • Elegant and good-looking appliance, which doesn’t look like an eye-sore on your dinner table or kitchen counter

What we dislike

  • It can only toast a single piece of bread, which isn’t very efficient
  • Bread with low sugar content takes longer to toast

3. PrecisionGrip Chopstick Tongs

Named the PrecisionGrip Chopstick Tongs, these unique little tongs are shaped like chopsticks. They’re great for picking up small pieces of food, supporting you with portion control, and preventing you from overeating. You can even turn the tongs over on the pan, letting you prepare meals like a pro chef.

Click Here to Buy Now: $19.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The Chopsticks Tongs are excellent for putting together bento boxes or eating sushi. The tongs are quite easy to use, and there is no wrong way to hold and use the tool.

What we like

  • Made from sustainable SUS821L1 stainless steel which is derived from scraps and offcuts

What we dislike

  • Difficult to use for larger pieces and cuts, only ideal for smaller food items

4. Ishiyaki Set

Called the Ishiyaki Set, this kitchen appliance brings an authentic and fascinating Japanese dining experience to your home, letting you prepare food in true teppanyaki style. It functions as a tabletop stone grill, allowing you to cook your meat the way you like it, in a personalized grilling set.

Why is it noteworthy?

It brings the Benihana experience to your home, letting you dry-sear your food before you eat it. It features a board with an additional porcelain tray to hold your food, as well as two bowls to hold your soy sauce and wasabi, creating the ultimate modern teppanyaki experience for you.

What we like

  • It brings the Benihana-style teppanyaki experience to your home
  • Ideal for dry-searing sashimi-style seafood like Tuna, Salmon, or Scallops, or meats like beef

What we dislike

  • Bulky, space-consuming design

5. Playful Palm Grater

Named the Playful Palm Grater, this compact little grater will add some whimsical yet functional fun to your dining experience. The grater is designed to fit into the palm of your hand, and you can nicely grate fresh ingredients into your food, elevating your meal to a gourmet-level experience.

Click Here to Buy Now: $25

Why is it noteworthy?

The palm grater looks like a curled piece of paper, and it is made from a single aluminum alloy plate. You can make your pick, as the grater is available in a variety of cool colors. You can select the one that suits your kitchen and personal taste.

What we like

  • Provides a firm grip, and is pretty easy to use
  • It converts the tedious act of grating into something exciting and fun

What we dislike

  • The grater’s size is quite cute and handy, but it doesn’t have the best design to grate large amounts of food

6. Rassen Chopsticks

The Rassen (spiral chopsticks) are designed by Nendo for Hashikura Matsukan. They are the perfect combination of fun and functionality, forming a product that is truly Japanese. You can combine the chopsticks together creating one convenient single unit, and you can pull them apart when needed.

Why is it noteworthy?

Bringing the chopsticks together and then separating them feels like you’re playing with a jigsaw puzzle. Using the chopsticks becomes a fun and interactive experience, bringing joy to your daily meal. And since you can easily combine the pair, you never have to live in fear of losing one!

What we like

  • Merges fun and functionality to form an interesting product
  • It is handmade by artisans

What we dislike

  • The design is quite new and unlike traditional chopsticks, and it can take a while to get used to them

7. Plate Grater

Called the Plate Grater, this tiny product looks like a little plate and can be set on the table. Once put on the table, you can use it to grate fresh ingredients into your meal. It merges the functionality of a plate with a grater. You can add fresh garnishes to your meal, preparing gourmet-style dishes.

Click Here to Buy Now: $65

Why is it noteworthy?

The Plate Grater features dual functionality and is a visually pleasing design, which lets you elevate your basic meal with some fresh garnishes.

What we like

  • Excellent for grating fresh ingredients onto your meal, and adding a gourmet touch

What we dislike

  • It may take a while for users to adjust to it and use it

8. Slim Fold Dish Rack

Say hello to the Slim Fold Dish Rack! This unique dish rack is portable, and you can carry it everywhere with you. It has a patent-pending spring mechanism which can be easily adjusted and drunk. You can deploy the dish rack when needed, making it super easy to set up and utilize.

Click Here to Buy Now: $75.00

Why is it noteworthy?

It features a minimal and sturdy design, which offers adequate ventilation, and makes more than enough space to store utensils, plates, and different cookware. The dish rack is an excellent product for your kitchen or for camping outdoors.

What we like

  • Easy to clean, maintain, and set up
  • Has a flexible collapsible form that you can carry anywhere with you

What we dislike

  • The wires of the rack are thin, making it tough to hold utensils

9. Hinoki Essence Cutting Board

Meet the Hinoki Essence Cutting Board – a beautiful wooden cutting board that offers you a hassle-free food-cutting experience. It is made from majestic hinoki cypress, and it is amped with a medium hardness which provides resistance without damaging knives. The cutting board has a minimal and visually appealing appearance.

Click Here to Buy Now: $59.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The Hinoki Essence Cutting Board has a simple yet stunning aesthetic, and the use of premium cypress wood makes it the perfect companion to the Precision Ceramic Sashimi Knife. Pair up the two to have a stunning and functional duo for all your cutting needs.

What we like

  • Built from Hinoki Cypress Wood which is not too harsh on knives
  • It has a water-resistant silicone coating which prevents damage

What we dislike

  • Requires special care to maintain it, which can be tedious

10. Thanko Electric Bento Rice Cooker

Dubbed the Thanko Electric Bento Rice Cooker, this portable cooker allows you to cook up a bowl of warm rice whenever needed. The cooker has a small portable size, and it is designed to cook single-serve rice in a short duration of time. The light glows once your bowl of rice is cooked.

Why is it noteworthy?

The cooker is excellent for those who like to travel often and need a fresh bowl of rice for dinner. You can prepare six ounces of rice in one go, and it has a measuring cup for convenience.

What we like

  • It has a portable and easy-to-carry design
  • You can eat rice right from the corner

What we dislike

  • There doesn’t seem to be a variety of choices in sizes and colors

The post Top 10 Japanese-Inspired Cooking Accessories To Bring Minimalist Functionality To Your Kitchen first appeared on Yanko Design.

Affordable Music Production: The $99 EASYPLAY 1s MIDI Controller with Built-In Speakers

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Small enough to fit in a pocket, lighter than an iPhone, but equipped with a 25+ sound bank, MIDI capabilities, 25 keys, and its own built-in speaker system, the EASYPLAY 1s might just be the easiest way to play music anywhere you go. Music instruments, whether digital or physical, have had a problem of being too expensive, too bulky, or both. The $99 EASYPLAY 1s makes music production and even jamming as simple as pulling the MIDI synth out of your pocket and starting to play. It comes with multiple instruments built-in, a drum machine for you to drop beats, and knobs that let you change octaves and instruments in mere seconds. When you’re done playing with the built-in instrument packs, the EASYPLAY can hook to your laptop or tablet, working as an external synth to let you access millions of other instruments… or even build your own.

Designer: SummerTones

Click Here to Buy Now: $99 $198 (49% off) Hurry! Only 60 hours left!

The beauty of the EASYPLAY 1s is that it rejects the status quo with a design that feels fresh, fun, and inviting. It doesn’t look like an electronic keyboard or piano, and opts for a more retro-funk design that’s reminiscent of something Teenage Engineering would create. The EASYPLAY 1s comes with colored keys, the ability to change keycaps, and a design that encourages endless experimentation. When you start playing with the EASYPLAY 1s, you start afresh – the entire experience feels new, which means you learn new things, stumble across new patterns, and create something that feels absolutely original. With time, muscle memory kicks in, and your fingers figure out how to dance across the EASYPLAY 1s’ 25-key interface.

Think of the Casio synthesizers back in the 80s and 90s, and imagine it condensed down into the size smaller than a Nintendo Switch. The EASYPLAY 1s has a small form factor that can be either used handheld, or even kept on a tabletop surface. Switch it on and it starts working off the bat, allowing you to choose instruments, set your pitch or octave, and begin playing. A set of two 2W speakers on each side is enough to play solo, or if you want something a little more comprehensive, a 3.5mm input lets you hook the EASYPLAY 1s to a set of headphones or even a speaker system. Want to go a step further? A USB-C port lets you hook the device to a computer or tablet running any DAW (Digital Audio Workstation), effectively turning your EASYPLAY 1s into an external synth. Use it to jam, produce music, or even play samples and loops during a deejay set. Heck, you could even use the EASYPLAY 1s as a gaming controller for games like Guitar Hero, or a slew of other key-smashing games.

The small, lightweight device packs its own 25+ bank of music instruments. You can choose between traditional instruments like a guitar, piano, accordion, saxophone, or go more electronic with waveforms like sawtooth or square waves. Two knobs on either side let you choose instruments or octaves, while keys at the center become your MIDI pads, allowing you to tap for singular notes, or press multiple buttons together to create chords. There’s also a built-in metronome that makes playing in rhythm easy when you’re learning or composing, and Bluetooth capabilities that let you connect your EASYPLAY 1s to a smartphone and play along with your favorite songs on Spotify or any other streaming service.

What sets the EASYPLAY 1s apart is its incredibly low barrier for entry. At $99, it’s more affordable than most regular instruments, making it a great addition to your music arsenal, or even a perfect first gift for a youngster interested in music production. The entire device weighs around 6 ounces (170 grams) and is made of durable ABS and Silicone, making it impervious to rough usage. The $99 variant will get you one EASYPLAY 1s and a set of stickers to put on the keys, or upgrade to the full package for $129, which also includes a lanyard, a carry case, and four sets of keycaps to replace the current ones, for a more themed music experience.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99 $198 (49% off) Hurry! Only 60 hours left!

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Unlocking New Possibilities: The Third Thumb’s Role in Modern Professional and Personal Tasks

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The Third Thumb is an extraordinary prosthetic innovation developed by Dani Clode and her team at University College London. Unlike traditional prosthetics that replace a lost limb, this device adds an extra thumb to the hand, significantly enhancing the human body’s capabilities. This 3D-printed, wearable thumb attaches opposite the biological thumb and is controlled by a unique system involving pressure sensors under the toes. These sensors communicate wirelessly with the thumb through a device worn around the ankles, allowing users to manipulate the thumb by applying pressure with their toes.

Designer: Dani ClodeDani Clode

The potential uses for the Third Thumb span a range of everyday and specialized tasks. For instance, consider a busy parent juggling grocery bags, a phone, and keys. An extra thumb can make it easier to carry more items at once, reducing the number of trips back and forth to the car. It can hold a phone steady for video calls or scrolling through social media, freeing up the other hand for additional tasks. Cooking also becomes more manageable, as the extra thumb can hold food in place while cutting, providing better stability and precision.

In professional settings, the Third Thumb shows even more promise. Musicians, for example, can use the thumb to unlock new playing techniques and enhance their performance. Guitarists can reach additional notes and chords previously out of reach, while pianists might find new ways to tackle complex pieces. Drummers could use the thumb to hold additional drumsticks or percussion instruments, allowing for more dynamic and intricate rhythms.

Manual laborers and artisans can benefit from the Third Thumb’s ability to hold tools and materials. Imagine an electrician who needs to keep a wire in place while using both hands to operate tools. The extra thumb can securely grip the wire, making the task more efficient and safer. Carpenters and woodworkers can hold pieces of wood or nails in place, freeing up their hands to use saws, hammers, or drills with greater control and precision.

Surgeons and medical professionals are another group that could see significant advantages from using the Third Thumb. In surgeries requiring high dexterity and precision, an extra thumb can hold instruments or tissues, allowing the surgeon to perform delicate procedures with greater ease and stability. This could potentially reduce the time needed for certain operations and improve patient outcomes.

The device’s versatility extends beyond these specialized fields. Bartenders, for instance, can use the extra thumb to hold bottles and glasses, making it easier to prepare complex cocktails during busy shifts. Chefs benefit from the additional grip when handling multiple ingredients or plating dishes with intricate presentations. Even office workers find value in the Third Thumb, using it to hold a phone or notepad while typing or taking notes during meetings.

Students and teachers can leverage the Third Thumb to manage multiple tasks simultaneously in educational settings. Students can hold textbooks or tablets while taking notes, enhancing their ability to study and learn. Teachers can use the extra thumb to hold teaching materials, allowing them to interact with students more effectively and manage classroom activities with greater ease.

Despite its many potential benefits, the necessity of the Third Thumb for the general public remains a point of discussion. For most people, the traditional two-thumb setup has proven sufficient for daily tasks and activities. However, the device’s ability to enhance efficiency and multitasking could appeal to a broad audience, especially those who frequently manage multiple items or tasks simultaneously.

The ease of use and adaptability of the Third Thumb are key factors in its potential adoption. During trials, including demonstrations at the Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition, participants quickly adapted to the device with minimal training. Remarkably, 98 percent of participants could use the thumb immediately, demonstrating its intuitive design. The control mechanism involves pressure sensors under the toes, which communicate wirelessly with the thumb through a device worn around the ankles. Pressure from the right toe moves the thumb across the hand, while pressure from the left toe moves it toward the fingers. This intuitive setup allowed users to quickly understand and manipulate the extra thumb, making it suitable for seamless integration into daily routines.

As with any new technology, bringing the Third Thumb to a larger audience will be challenging. Manufacturing, marketing, and distribution will be crucial in determining its success. Additionally, the device’s affordability and accessibility will be important considerations for widespread adoption.

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Is the HMD Skyline the Nokia Lumia Revival We’ve Been Waiting For?

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The rumor mill is churning for HMD, the company behind the Nokia brand of smartphones. Their upcoming phone, codenamed Tomcat and now seemingly confirmed as the HMD Skyline, is generating excitement with its feature set and targeted price range. Slated for a July release, the Skyline is shaping up to be a mid-range contender with high-end features. Leaks suggest a €520 ($565 USD) price tag, positioning it above HMD’s recent offerings. It will boast 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, but most notably, leaks show a design language that’s highly reminiscent of Nokia’s Lumia range. The phones boast sharp corners and colorful bodies that hark back to Nokia’s Windows Phone days.

Designer: HMD Skyline

The display is rumored to be a highlight, with a FHD+ OLED touchscreen featuring a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. Powering the device will likely be the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 SoC, a capable chip for everyday tasks and even some gaming. Camera enthusiasts will have a triple-lens setup on the back to play with, rumored to consist of a 108MP main sensor, an 8MP ultrawide sensor (likely), and a 2MP macro or depth sensor. Selfies will be handled by a 32MP front-facing camera.

Keeping the phone juiced is expected to be a 4,900mAh battery with support for 33W fast charging. Durability is also addressed with IP67 certification for dust and water resistance. The Skyline is also said to run the latest Android 14 operating system out of the box and will have an under-display fingerprint sensor for added security. Stereo speakers round out the package for an immersive entertainment experience.

Although HMD hasn’t officially released any images, these blurry leaks are proof that the Nokia brand language is alive and well. The company’s Lumia series captured many hearts back in Nokia’s heyday, and even though Satya Nadella (who shut Nokia’s mobile division down) said that the Windows Phone was a mistake, their catchy design language clearly wasn’t. The Skyline will allegedly be available in four gorgeous colors – pink, blue, green, and yellow. A sub-600 price tag and fairly impressive specs make it a great snag for anyone bitten by the nostalgia bug.

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Eco-Friendly Design Concepts at NeoCon 2024: Transforming Workspaces

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NeoCon 2024 is just around the corner, and this year’s event is set to significantly impact the world of commercial interior design. Taking place June 10-12 at The Mart in Chicago, this 55th edition is expected to attract around 50,000 attendees who will explore the latest trends and innovations in shared spaces. Let’s dive into what to expect, focusing on the themes of design, well-being and sustainability.

Design: Creating Spaces That Connect Us

Design is at the heart of NeoCon, and this year’s event is about creating environments that foster community and collaboration. Gone are the days of bland, cubicle-filled offices. Today, it’s all about spaces that spark spontaneous interactions and genuine connections. Imagine walking into an office that feels more like a dynamic, buzzing café than a traditional workspace.

For instance, products like GRVT by Ghent and KI’s Sonrisa Lounge Furniture offer mobile, flexible solutions that can transform any environment into a collaborative hub at a moment’s notice. These designs cater to the ever-changing needs of modern workspaces. Spacestor’s Portals Huddle, with its easy-to-relocate collaboration spaces, exemplifies how versatile and responsive workplace design has become.

The overall layout also plays a huge role. Gensler’s Design Forecast for 2024 highlights the importance of human-centric workplaces that inspire purpose and reflect organizational values. This means creating spaces where people can casually bump into each other, sparking creativity and camaraderie. These little moments can make a big difference in fostering a positive company culture.

Well-Being: The Science of Feeling Good

One of the most fascinating trends at NeoCon 2024 is the rise of neuroaesthetics—designing spaces that make you feel good based on how your brain reacts to certain elements. Think colors, sounds and even the art on the walls. It’s all about creating environments that boost your mood, productivity and overall well-being.

The Immersive Biophilic Garden by Garden on the Wall, for example, features indoor preserved gardens and moss walls that elevate moods and stimulate minds. Similarly, Egan Visual’s Sculpt Walls blend art with acoustics to create a sensory-rich experience, and CECOCECO’s ArtMorph panels use lighting and textures to soothe and captivate.

Colors play a significant part too. Studies show that natural patterns and shapes are easier for our brains to process, leading to a sense of calm and clarity. Shaw Contract’s Arctic Escape collection and Bernhardt’s Ice Collection of cobalt blue tables are designed to evoke specific emotional responses. Warm colors like Pantone’s color of the year, Peach Fuzz, and cool blues highlighted in ASID’s 2024 Trends Outlook also contribute to environments that make us feel good.

Unexpected pops of color, engaging textures and artful patterns can act as positive distractions in stressful environments. Designtex’s Joy Collection, with its vibrant colors and stimulating designs, brings a sense of clarity and delight, especially to healthcare settings. Collaborations like Stylex and Carole Baijings’ new color palette show how creative use of color can enrich our daily experiences.

Sustainability: Designing for the Future

Sustainability has shifted from a trend to a non-negotiable element of modern design. With the built environment contributing significantly to global CO2 emissions, there’s a pressing need for eco-friendly practices. NeoCon 2024 showcases the leaders in sustainable design, highlighting materials and solutions that reduce environmental impact without sacrificing style or functionality.

Haworth’s DesignLab emphasizes circular design—considering sustainability at every stage of a product’s life cycle. Andreu World’s Circular Design Challenge encourages industry professionals to embrace greener practices like eco-design, zero waste management and carbon neutrality.

Biophilic design, which integrates natural elements like plants and natural light into spaces, is also gaining traction. This approach reduces stress and fosters a deeper connection to nature. Scandinavian Spaces’ Tinnef, made from 100% recycled plastic, and Davis Furniture’s X50 collection, featuring components made of pre-consumer recycled content, are leading the charge in this space.

Noteworthy sustainable innovations include Ultrafabrics’ Volar Bio, which features a mix of recycled and bio-based content, and Turf’s Stone Textures, which emulate natural stone using eco-friendly materials. Slalom’s Bloom product emphasizes acoustic wellness using bio-based materials, while C.F. Stinson’s Sea Change textiles are crafted from post-consumer recycled polyester. Nienkamper’s Vox Tambour, using the eco-material Eelgrass, demonstrates how sustainable materials can offer excellent acoustic and thermal regulation properties.

NeoCon 2024 is set to showcase how thoughtful design can create environments that are functional, beautiful and supportive of human connections and environmental stewardship. As we look forward to the innovations on display, it’s clear that the future of design lies in creating spaces that are as good for people as they are for the planet. This holistic approach makes NeoCon 2024 an unmissable event for anyone interested in the future of our shared spaces.

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This Desktop Engraver with a Dual Laser System is the Ultimate Customization Tool for Everyone

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The xTool F1 Ultra represents a significant advancement in the engraving industry. It is the world’s first desktop engraver featuring a dual laser system with a 20W fiber and 20W diode galvo. This system allows it to handle a diverse array of materials, such as wood, acrylic, leather, metals, and plastics. Its versatility makes it an ideal option for both professionals and hobbyists.

Designer: xTool

Click Here to Buy Now: $3999 $4799.99 ($800.99 off). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours!

Using an IR (infrared) laser as its laser source and a fiber (diode-pumped fiber laser) as the gain medium, the F1 Ultra stands out in its capability. These components are crucial for generating laser light. When the laser source strikes the gain medium, the intensity of the laser beam is amplified. Unlike the xTool S1 & F1 and other common IR lasers on the market that use DPSS (diode-pumped solid-state laser) as the gain medium, this engraver uses fiber to maximize laser power. This design choice results in deeper engraving and cutting at the same power level, making the F1 Ultra an exceptionally powerful and efficient tool.

The F1 Ultra, combining a 20W fiber and a 20W diode laser, broadens the range of materials that can be engraved. This powerful system supports deep engraving, embossing, and cutting. The 20W fiber laser excels on all metals, plastics, rocks, and ceramics, enabling deep engraving, embossing, and cutting thin metal sheets. The 20W diode laser is perfect for common materials like wood, acrylic (excluding translucent colors), leather, glass, paper, rubber, and fabric, and can efficiently cut these materials. In addition, the F1 Ultra is adept at metal cutting. Its 20W fiber laser can cut thin pieces of stainless steel (0.3mm), brass (0.4mm), and aluminum (0.2mm), making it suitable for various metalworking projects.

The Auto Streamline Production technology is enhanced by a built-in 16MP camera, which can automatically recognize shapes and patterns on the production line. This intelligent system allows the F1 Ultra to accurately fill patterns on each piece. The process is streamlined and requires only a single cable to connect to the conveyor, simplifying operations.
With the largest working area among desktop galvo engravers, the F1 Ultra measures 220x220mm and extends to 220x500mm with the conveyor. This area is nearly double the size of other brands, which typically measure 110x110mm and expand to 170x170mm with the conveyor. Despite its large size, the F1 Ultra maintains laser power concentration, making it the largest of its kind, whether equipped with a conveyor or not.

The world’s first 20W fiber and diode dual laser. Not only does it expand the range of materials that can be engraved, F1 ultra’s 20W high power allows you to do deep engrave, emboss and cut.

Both the diode and fiber lasers inside the F1 Ultra are engineered for exceptional performance, capable of engraving at impressive speeds on a wide variety of materials, including wood, metals, plastic, acrylic, and leather. The high power and precision of the lasers enable rapid processing without compromising on quality. This speed significantly reduces waiting times, allowing for more projects to be completed in a shorter period. As a result, the F1 Ultra enhances productivity and improves workflow efficiency. Whether you’re working on a single intricate piece or a batch of items, the swift engraving capabilities of the F1 Ultra ensure that deadlines are met and output is maximized. This level of efficiency is particularly beneficial for businesses offering personalized services, as it allows for quick turnaround times and the ability to handle a higher volume of custom orders, ultimately boosting profitability and customer satisfaction.

Auto Streamline Production™ with Camera, No More Complex Procedures

Safety is a primary focus in the F1 Ultra’s design. The fully enclosed machine is engineered to prevent accidental injuries from the invisible fiber laser light, providing a secure operating environment. The enclosure is specifically designed to filter out strong blue light emitted by the diode laser, which protects users’ eyes from potential harm. This design consideration is crucial, as exposure to intense laser light can cause serious eye damage. Additionally, the F1 Ultra is equipped with an efficient smoke extraction system. This system swiftly removes smoke and dust generated during the engraving process, ensuring clear visibility of the working area and maintaining air quality, reducing the risk of respiratory issues for the user. This feature is particularly important for storefront use, where maintaining a clean and safe environment is essential for both employees and customers.

These safety features make the F1 Ultra suitable for various settings, including educational environments where safety is paramount. These features collectively ensure that the F1 Ultra is powerful and safe, allowing users to focus on creativity and productivity without compromising health and safety standards.

Designed to be user-friendly, the F1 Ultra comes pre-assembled for immediate use. Its intuitive xTool Creative Space Software, combined with a built-in camera for easy focusing and positioning, makes it accessible even to beginners. With 7GB of storage, the touchscreen control panel allows users to save projects directly on the machine and start processing without needing to connect to a computer or tablet. Future updates will include 3D curve engraving, enabling engraving on curved surfaces up to 45°, further expanding its capabilities.

For business owners, the F1 Ultra is a big potential revenue generator. Its speed of 10000mm/s and versatility make it ideal for on-site customization, attracting customers, and creating memorable experiences.

Whether engraving names on metal jewelry or adding intricate designs to wooden items, the F1 Ultra is a valuable asset for any store offering personalized services. Its ability to perform deep engravings, cut thin metal pieces, and automate production processes sets it apart from other desktop engravers on the market. Dubbed the “Crazy Money Maker,” the F1 Ultra excels in on-site customization in stores, batch production with factory-level productivity, and jewelry making, including deep engraving and 3D embossing on metals.

Empowered by Makeblock, xTool aims to turn creativity into reality with powerful software and user-friendly hardware. Since its inception in 2018 and the launch of the first xTool Laserbox in 2019, the brand has consistently innovated in laser engraving technology. The F1 Ultra builds on this legacy, providing a versatile and powerful tool for creators, crafters, and educational professionals. It offers unmatched versatility and efficiency, making it an exceptional choice in the engraving industry.

The F1 Ultra is now available at xTool’s official website, priced at $3999. Participate in the xTool trade-up program to enjoy an extra $200 off, making the final price $3799. This offer is open to anyone with a used laser machine or vinyl cutter of any brand.

Click Here to Buy Now: $3999 $4799.99 ($800.99 off). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours!

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