Tag Archives: Tools

Top 10 Meditation Tools To Help You Achieve A Zen Mental State

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Look, I know life can get hectic and work can be super exhausting, which can be brutal for our mental health. Taking care of our mental well-being has never been more essential, considering how chaotic life can get. As much as we tend to pay attention to our physical well-being, it’s time to do the same for our mental health. Meditation can really help you unwind, release stress, and create an overall tranquil mindset. Although if you’re anything like me, sitting still without a single thought in your head can seem damn near impossible! Hence we’ve curated a collection of innovative gadgets to help you master the art of meditation. From a meditation headset designed by Layer to a battery-free aroma diffuser – these inventive product designs are all you need to inculcate meditation sessions into your daily routine! Start your day or end it on a peaceful and tranquil note. You can thank us later!

1. Japanese Lantern Candle

Designed to look like a traditional Japanese ‘chouchin’ lantern, this pretty Japanese lantern candle has an interesting pillar shape and is essential for your bedroom or bathroom on the days you decide to give yourself some much-needed me-time and pampering. The lantern has a soothing and aesthetic appearance.

Click Here to Buy Now: $69

Why is it noteworthy?

The Japanese lantern candle provides a contemporary and modern take on an iconic Japanese design. It has a minimalist design that lets it seamlessly merge with any modern living space perfectly and emits a relaxing glow that will instantly make you feel at ease, and help you enter a meditative state.

What we like

  • Since the wax is non-melting, it creates a lovely clarity on the candle

What we dislike

  • The candle is a fire hazard, so you need to use it carefully around kids and pets

2. ASMR Zen Ball

This little compact ball is called the ASMR Zen Ball, and it perfectly fuses natural and engineered elements to create a space-inspired design that provides a calming and relaxing experience to its users. The nifty little product has a meteorite-inspired porous surface that functions as an excellent absorbent surface for your aroma oils, which helps create a meditative experience for you.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99

Why is it noteworthy?

The Zen Ball is made from genuine volcanic stone and matte aluminum alloy, which lets it double up as a fidget toy, creating an interactive experience, where users can connect with the natural energy of the earth.

What we like

  • The Zen Ball also doubles up as a fidget toy, which provides sensory stimulation

What we dislike

  • The ball could get rolling due to accidental bumps when not attached to its base

3. Rin Harmony Incense Holder

The Rin Harmony Incense Holder lets you enjoy the smoky and relaxing aroma of your favorite incense stick, letting you calm down, irrespective of where you are. The holder is built from natural walnut wood, and it serves as a storage space for the incense sticks, as well as a base for the burning incense.

Click Here to Buy Now: $199

Why is it noteworthy?

The brass plate functions as a safe space to hold the lit stick, and a matching cover lets you snuff out the flame, while also making sure that the ashes don’t fly around.

What we like

  • Dual-functional design with a minimal form
  • Great companion for your calming exercises and meditation

What we dislike

  • The holder only allows one incense to be lit at a time, so the reach of the aroma is limited

4. LightVision Meditation Headset

Designed by Layer Design, the LightVision meditation headset is an interesting innovation with an array of LED lights that create a layer of magic to the natural visual feed of the user. It transforms natural videos into a sequence of biomorphic patterns, which are visible to the closed eyes.

Why is it noteworthy?

The patterns are visible as an ever-changing kaleidoscope of sequences that trigger the brain’s “frequency-following response”.  This results in a distraction-free state of mind letting you meditate and unwind.

What we like

  • An ergonomic form that is comfortable on the face and eyes

What we dislike

  • Meditating with the help of screens may result in tired eyes if you’re using them for long periods of time

5. Battery-free Aroma Diffuser

If you’re in the mood to meditate, then this battery-free aroma diffuser is your perfect companion. It lets you take a deep and relaxing breath without causing any kind of harm to the environment. When you use the battery-free aroma diffuser, you harness the power of a single candle as it uses simple science and physics.

Click Here to Buy Now: $249

Why is it noteworthy?

As its name signifies, the diffuser doesn’t need any batteries or external power source to operate. It only uses the heat of a single candle to spread some amazing aromatic scents. Made from sustainable materials, the diffuser has a minimalist and eco-friendly design philosophy.

What we like

  • Built from recyclable materials
  • Compatible with all kinds of essential oils

What we dislike

  • Since the diffuser lacks electric controls, it is tough to adjust the intensity of the aroma

6. Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set

Named the Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set, this little design induces relaxation as it recreates the smell and lovely experience of a mesmerizing outdoor fire. It perfectly captures all the scents, smells, and memories of a memorable outdoor fire, but within the comfort of your own home, without the dangers of a large outdoor fire.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99

Why is it noteworthy?

The wood collected for the diffuser is from branches that were meant to be thrown away. They give off a distinct warm smoky steel when they are burnt on the stainless steel mini oven, emitting a comforting and serene aroma.

What we like

  • You can use the diffuser as a heating or cooking stool by adding a piece of solid wood, making it a distinct multifunctional design

What we dislike

  • Requires small pieces of wood, can’t be used with larger pieces of wood

7. Stress-free Aroma Diffuser

Meet the Stress-free Aroma Diffuser which helps you sit back and relax while breathing in an excellent mix of aromatic blends, that have been specially selected to soothe your mind, and help you meditate and unwind. Play some calming music, and let yourself relax with the Stress-free Aroma Diffuser.

Click Here to Buy Now: $149

Why is it noteworthy?

The Stress-free Aroma Diffuser emits a gentle breeze, which disperses the aroma evenly wherever you are sitting. It features a porcelain filter that absorbs the oil to provide a long-lasting experience.

What we like

  • The base is polished and provides an interesting contrast to the organic-looking porcelain disc, letting it function as an elegant decoration piece

What we dislike

  • Looks easily breakable and fragile, so it must be handled with care

8. The SOUL

The SOUL is an ambient sound generator with a pure all-white minimalist form factor with 8 tactile slides on the top and ambient lighting at the base of the speaker. You don’t need to connect it to your Wi-Fi, and does it come with an app, nor does it have Bluetooth.

Why is it noteworthy?

The SOUL is designed to help you calm down, and not bog you down with features, and paid subscriptions. The sliders on the top resemble tactile spherical sliders, and they let you build out your soundscape, letting you choose between different sounds, and how loud you want them.

What we like

  • The 8 sliders allow you to customize your sound, helping you focus, destress, meditate, or even fall asleep

What we dislike

  • It’s a conceptual product, so we don’t know how well it will translate into a tangible product

9. Focus

Dubbed Focus, this unique design merges an aroma diffuser and a mood lamp to form an object that will remind you of a scented candle. Focus is meant to touch your different senses, letting you unwind, and enter a soothing meditative state, where you can leave all your cumbersome worries behind.

Why is it noteworthy?

In its unlit mode, Focus resembles a small wireless speaker, but when turned on, it allows you to take a break and relax, while also encouraging you to be mindful, and helping you to focus at the task on hand.

What we like

  • Lets you take little breaks, and enjoy the present moment

What we dislike

  • It’s a concept, so we are unsure how the actual product will turn out to be

10. Gingko Smart Diffuser Lamp

This is the Gingko Smart Diffuser Lamp – it is equipped with a monolithic form that holds a fragrance diffuser in its upper half, and a compact, well-designed desk lamp in its lower half, allowing it to function as a smart dual-functional product design, that you can place on your desk or bedside table.

Why is it noteworthy?

Made from a combination of wood, copper, and frosted acrylic glass, the diffuser has an earthy warm appearance that is typically seen in most of Gingko’s products, creating a product that is minimal, calming, and surreal.

What we like

  • A portable little device that you can carry around with ease

What we dislike

  • Some people may not prefer wood as their material of choice for diffusers

The post Top 10 Meditation Tools To Help You Achieve A Zen Mental State first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Sleek & Minimal Multitools For Those Who Are Sick Of Bulky & Hefty Designs

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EDCs truly bring the sentence “big things come in small packages” to life. They’re the nifty little tools that are great to have in your backpack or tool kit. But if you’re the kind of person who doesn’t like those bulky and fat multitools that seem to occupy just a bit too much space in your toolbox – then you’ve hit the perfect listicle! We’ve curated minimal sleek multitools that get the work done, without looking too bulky or hefty.  These little superheroes can make a world of difference while completing tasks – whether big or small. And, we’ve curated the best EDC designs we’ve seen in a while! From 8-in-1 EDC scissors to a modular multitool that you can custom-build – these are the EDC designs you definitely need by your side.

1. Windeler

Meet the Windeler, an innovative little design that lets you build and create your own EDC multitool based on your needs and requirements. The sleek Windeler lets you plug in and plug out modules, allowing you to swap out a pocket knife for a flathead screwdriver, or a small pair of scissors.

Why is it noteworthy?

You don’t need always to leave the house with your same old tools, with Windeler you can build, customize, and rebuild your EDC, letting you carry the stuff you truly need, and leave behind the stuff you don’t. It is a nifty multitool that lets you customize your toolbox daily.

What we like

  • Functions as a sleek monolithic multitool that you can just slip into your bag

What we dislike

  • Although it is similar in size to most multitools, it doesn’t feature as many tools as other designs on the market

2. Craftmaster EDC Utility Knife

The Utility Knife is styled like an everyday paper cutter, and it features a stunning all-metal body, with a textured knob that allows you to deploy and lock the blade. The handle is quite weighted and grippy, offering a comfortable and accident-free cutting experience. It also conceals a slick metal scale that you can detach and use independently.

Click Here to Buy Now: $79.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The knife is a simple and sophisticated EDC that cleverly conceals its functionality in its minimalist and sleek design. It features a CNC-machined handle and an enclosed blade that is machined to perfection. This allows the blade to slide through with complete smoothness and zero difficulty.

What we like

  •  Features a 45° slant that lets you open boxes easily and efficiently
  • Features a metal scale, allowing it to double up as a multifunctional design

What we dislike

  • Magnetic back might attract small metal parts in bags or boxes

3. HexFlex Multitool

Called the HexFlex multitool, this little design fits 14 useful tools into its small frame and is equipped with a keyring attachment, allowing you to always keep it with you. It is made from stainless steel and is a season-appropriate multitool with a clever snowflake-shaped design.

Why is it noteworthy?

It comes with two Phillips screwdrivers, a flathead screwdriver, three hex drivers, a box-cutter, a bottle opener, and six different wrenches. Since it fastens to your keychain, you can carry it anywhere you go, allowing you to open stuff from bottles to boxes!

What we like

  • Available in a titanium variant as well
  • Comes equipped with 14 tools

What we dislike

4. M-20 Titanium Magnetic Screwdriver

This unique 9-in-1 magnetic screwdriver ensures that you always have the right tools in your pocket, allowing you to fix things and do your magic wherever your skills are needed! The M-20 doesn’t really look like a screwdriver, in fact, it resembles a carrying case for screwdriver bits.

Why is it noteworthy?

The uniquely shaped multitool features slots for up to nine bits, and it holds them in place with the help of very strong magnets. This ensures that they don’t get loose, and prevents them from getting lost.

What we like

  • Built from titanium, which makes it lightweight yet durable
  • Offers you a firm and precise grip making it easy to handle

What we dislike

  • The screwdriver features a flat design which makes it an ergonomically different experience for inexperienced users

5. 8-in-1 EDC Scissors

Say hello to the 8-in-1 EDC Scissor which is perfect for indoor and outdoor culinary adventures. You can pull the scissors apart to form a set of knives! In fact, it even has a built-in bottle opener, nut cracker, can opener, and fire starter, forming one handy package that will come to your rescue in all kinds of situations.

Click Here to Buy Now: $59

Why is it noteworthy?

This pair of innovative scissors separate into individual halves, offering you two knives, and a large variety of multiools on demand. Once you put them back together, the scissors can cut through hard materials like cured meats too, while the serrated mid-section can be used to crack through walnuts.

What we like

  • Ideal for the kitchen, but also for outdoor cooking on a camping trip
  • Clever practical tool that has a whole gamut of cool features

What we dislike

  • Not something you can carry in your pocket

6. Precision Sakura Metal Puzzle

Give your brain a satisfying and amusing challenge with this beautiful all-metal puzzle! Called the Precision Metal Sakura Puzzle, this puzzle has the shape of Japan’s most iconic flowers, with pieces that look so similar, that you’ll be scratching your head about where to put them.

Click Here to Buy Now: $299

Why is it noteworthy?

Once this metal puzzle has been assembled it takes on the shape of Japan’s iconic sakura flowers. The puzzle is built from mirror-finish stainless steel with pieces that fit completely and seamlessly together, this puts your brain to the test, allowing you to challenge yourself. And since it has a compact no-frills design, you can carry it anywhere with you, letting you play with your mind whenever you’re bored.

What we like

  • You can build a puzzle, enjoy a fun game, and carry it with you wherever you go, owing to its lightweight form

What we dislike

  • The puzzle could be difficult to put together, which may not be preferred by users who are seeking a relaxing experience

7. AirTag Carabiners

These innovative, sleek, and quite good-looking AirTag Carabiners give a refreshing makeover to your boring old metal carabiners. Say good to your standard carabiners and, meet these precision-made metallic carabiners! They have a lightweight, non-bulky form that makes them easy to carry, and even easier to use.

Click Here to Buy Now: $119

Why is it noteworthy?

They have been meticulously handcrafted to offer you premium durability. These unique carabiners aren’t just melted metal casings, in fact, each piece is unlike any other as manufacturing conditions can affect the final design.

What we like

  • The carabiners are crafted by hand from high-quality metal

What we dislike

  • Attaching or detaching the AirTag isn’t very user-friendly, or easily accessible, and can be inconvenient

8. M-stand

Dubbed the M-stand, this compact and lightweight tool is not only powerful but also pretty versatile. It quite smartly balances tactical and casual roles, as it works as a self-defense tool and a smartphone stand. It can convert from one to another within 10 seconds. It is a durable tool that will fit snugly in your pocket.

Why is it noteworthy?

The M-stand is made from durable titanium, and it doubles up as multiple tools such as a rope cutter, two wrenches, a bottle opener, a pry tool, a fire starter, and a tritium holder. All these handy tools have been fitted into a compact and sleek body.

What we like

  • The multitool features two-finger grips on either side letting you easily prop up your phone or tablet, providing you with a multitool that works well indoors and outdoors

What we dislike

  • The sharp edge of the design is always exposed and outside and could lead to accidental harm if you’re not careful

9. The Dango M1 Lite Cardholder Wallet

The Dango M1 Lite cardholder wallet is a sleek and minimalist wallet that keeps all your important essentials neat, tidy, organized, and easily accessible. The wallet has a barely-there form but a ton of capacity to store your necessary items.

Why is it noteworthy?

The wallet features CNC-machined aerospace 6061-grade aluminum and is quite lightweight and durable. It also features a Cerakote finish that provides it with an extra layer of protection.

What we like

  • Can carry 10-13 cards, equipped with a lot of storage
  • Features a Dango RFID Secrued Card, keeping your sensitive information safe and secure

What we dislike

  • Basic + unassuming aesthetics

10. AirTag Holder

Meet this innovative  AirTag Holder by Atech! It is crafted from solid stainless steel and is a nifty little multitool that gives you seven diverse features in its compact design. It can hold your keys, dock your smartphone, open bottles, and maneuver hex bolds.

Why is it noteworthy?

The multitool is shaped like a carabiner, and it has an enclosure that allows you to dock a single AirTag, allowing you to track your EDC using your Apple devices. It has a hope on the top, that lets you secure a keychain to your AirTag Holder, letting you open screws and bottles.

What we like

  • The tracking device is held in place by two ABS plastics, which doesn’t cause any interference in its signal

What we dislike

  • Doesn’t let you control what angle your phone will be placed at. It depends on how slim your smartphone is, and whether you use a case for it or not

The post Top 10 Sleek & Minimal Multitools For Those Who Are Sick Of Bulky & Hefty Designs first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Cooking Supplies To Bring True Japanese Aesthetics, Functionality & Style To Your Kitchen

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Japanese design is just so 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. Mitsubishi Bread Oven

Mitsubishi’s Bread Oven is created to serve you the perfect toast! Looking like an adorable waffle maker, the toaster features a veneer brown look that seems to be straight out of the ’80s. It has a sealed thermal-insulated structure and can toast your bread without releasing any moisture, preparing a soft and fluffy toast for you!

Why is it noteworthy?

The Bread Oven is equipped with two plates that can go up to temperatures as high as even 500 degrees Fahrenheit. These nifty plates seal the piece of bread, transferring heat to it, and creating a slice of toast that is anything but dry.

What we like

  • It has four cooking settings – Toast, Frozen Toast, Topping, and French Toast
  • Sleek good looks, making it a great fit for your dining table

What we dislike

  • You can only toast one slice of bread at a time, which can be inconvenient
  • It takes longer to toast bread with low sugar content

2. Slim Fold Dish Rack

Named the Slim Fold Dish Rack, this innovative dish rack has a portable design, allowing you to carry it anywhere with you. It features a patent-pending spring mechanism, that lets you adjust and shrink the rack from 14″ to 1.2″ in no time. The rack can be easily deployed, making it quick to set up and use.

Click Here to Buy Now: $75.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The Slim Fold Dish Rack has a minimalist yet durable design, perfectly capturing the highlights of Japanese design. It ensures adequate ventilation and offers plenty of space for cookware, utensils, and plates of any shape and size. Since it has a convenient portable form, it is great for camping outdoors too.

What we like

  • Collapsible and flexible form that ensures clean and dry utensils in the nick of time
  • Portable design that is easy to clean and dishwasher friendly

What we dislike

  • Since the rack has slim wires, it’s not the best option to hold heavy utensils like pots and plans

3. Black Kitchen Knives

These Black Kitchen Knives are fashionable and sophisticated featuring a sleek black blade that makes them stand out from other typical knives. The black sheen offers the knives a refined look, adding a touch of Japanese class to your kitchen and cooking process. They’re the upgrade you need from your mundane knives.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99

Why is it noteworthy?

The Black Kitchen Knives feature a clean and sleek form, with only a subtle “i” logo, ensuring there are no loud distractions on its body. The knives remind you of a ninja in the shadows, which goes straight for the kill, cutting your ingredients with stealth, grace, and deadly precision.

What we like

  • The knives are crafted from molybdenum vanadium steel, making them quite durable and sharp
  • They’ve been coated with titanium to provide increased wear resistance

What we dislike

  • The knives are only available in black, with one uniform design, so there aren’t a lot of colors to choose from to match our kitchen

4. Rassen Chopsticks

Designed by Nendo for Hashikura Matsukan, the Rassen (spiral chopsticks), perfectly marry fun and functionality, to create a product that is quintessentially Japanese. The pair of chopsticks can be attached together to form one convenient single unit, and they can be separated whenever you need to use them.

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

  • The perfect culmination of fun and functionality
  • Handmade by artisans

What we dislike

  • May not be preferred by those who like traditional chopsticks, and could take a while for them to get used to the product’s unique form

5. Iron Frying Plate

If I had to pick one kitchen product that truly captures the sensible yet interesting Japanese design philosophy – I would pick the Iron Frying Plate. This unique kitchen design doubles as a serving plate and a frying pan, all thanks to its innovative removable handle, which allows the product to change forms.

Click Here to Buy Now: $69

Why is it noteworthy?

The Iron Frying Plate marries both a frying pan and a serving plate to create a functional and unique kitchen tool. Made using durable materials, the plate cooks and serves, while facilitating direct-from-the-pan serving. It introduces an ingenious and novel new way of cooking and serving.

What we like

  • The plate’s wooden handle can be attached and detached, allowing it to double up as a frying pan and serving platter

What we dislike

  • It’s made from iron, making it quite a heavy pan in comparison to traditional frying pans. Hence it could be difficult to store and handle in small kitchens

6. Magemono Tumbler and Bread Tray

The Magemono Tumbler and Bread Tray are beautiful Japanese-style serving dishes. The tumbler features a Hasamiyaki porcelain inner vessel and a Magemono Japanese cedar wood sleeve on the outside. The bread tray is a thin tray crafted from a fir tree and is available in two sizes.

Why is it noteworthy?

The bread tray is perfect for serving those breakfast sandwiches, while the tumbler can hold a brewed cup of coffee. Both the dishes represent the serene and untouched perfection of Japanese craftsmanship, while also providing sustenance to the craftsmen and their families, and also allowing this art to be passed down to younger generations.

What we like

  • Preserves and boasts Japanese craftsmanship
  • The bread tray can even toast the bread for longer according to the designer

What we dislike

  • Available in a single colorway only

7. Precision Chef Kitchen Scissors

Named the Precision Chef Kitchen Scissors, sleek black kitchen shears feature a curved serrated blade that slices through your food in a quick and easy manner. The precise scissors are excellent for cutting up some steak on the dining table, allowing you to showcase your meat-cutting skills.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99

Why is it noteworthy?

The Precision Chef Kitchen Scissors have an aura and image of power and style, owing to their jet-black shade. The position they’ll occupy in your kitchen will be impressive and intimidating, while skillfully chopping through veggies, pizza, steak, and more.

What we like

  • The scissors are equipped with a curved serrated blade that cuts meat safely, effortlessly, and swiftly
  • Makes cutting an easy and hassle-free step of the food prep process

What we dislike

  • The scissors are only available in black, so there aren’t many color options to choose from and match with our kitchens

8. Playful Palm Grater

The Playful Palm Grater is what you need to add some Japanese functionality and whimsical fun to your kitchen or dining table. The little grater can fit perfectly into the palm of your hand, marrying fun and functionality to create a product that is lightweight, full of value, and transforms a simple cooking process into an interesting experience.
Click Here to Buy Now: $25

Why is it noteworthy?

The Playful Palm Grater is a charming and functional product that resembles a curled piece of paper. It is made from a single aluminum alloy plate and is available in different color options. You have a wide range of colors to pick from, allowing you to add a pop of color and sparkle to your boring old kitchen and dinner table.

What we like

  • Has a unique and ergonomic form that offers a strong and sturdy grip
  • Transforms the simple of act grating into a fun and playful experience, while also making it easier

What we dislike

  • The Playful Palm Grater has a tiny size, which isn’t suitable for grating large amounts of food or larger food items

9. PARTAYAKI

The PARTAYAKI is an innovative tabletop grill designed to bring the flavors and experience of a Japanese Steakhouse to your kitchen table. It lets you be the chef, and cook up your own steaks for your friends and family. You don’t need to step out of your home to experience a Japanese Steakhouse.

Why is it noteworthy?

The PARTAYAKI is modeled after the same professional grills that you see in Japanese Steakhouses. It lets you prepare delicious meals and create a Japanese Steakhouse-like experience for your family and friends in the comfort of your own home and kitchen.

What we like

  • Equipped with dipping sauce trays and one-quart hot pots to prepare traditional Chinese-style Hot Pots
  • Features molded chopstick holders

What we dislike

  • It is quite a space-consuming design, so you’ll need sufficient space in your kitchen
  • It does seem a bit difficult to clean and maintain

10. Thanko Electric Bento Rice Cooker

Meet the Thanko Electric Bento rice cooker – a portable cooker that lets you prepare a bowl of warm rice wherever you are. This little cooker is designed to make rice an omnipresent food item no matter where you go. It is excellent for cooking single-serve rice in a short period of time. The LED light glows once the rice is ready!

Why is it noteworthy?

The Thanko Electric Bento rice cooker is great for those who travel or want fresh rice at the office instead of takeout or repacked meals. The rice cooker can prepare 6 ounces of rice in one go. It even comes with a measuring cup for convenience!

What we like

  • Depending on the ounces of rice, it will be cooked between 14-20 minutes
  • Portable, easy-to-carry design
  • Lets you eat rice straight from the container

What we dislike

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

The post Top 10 Cooking Supplies To Bring True Japanese Aesthetics, Functionality & Style To Your Kitchen first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Compact Tools & Appliances That Are The Ultimate Space-Saving Hacks For Your Kitchen

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They say big things come in small packages! And I could not agree more. Sometimes the most inconsequential-looking products can be packed with a whole load of utility. And this is certainly true in the case of kitchen appliances and tools. Space constraint is a major issue in our modern-day cramped kitchens, and shoving a whole bunch of bulky and space-consuming kitchen appliances in them is almost impossible! Hence, we’ve curated a collection of compact kitchen designs that do not compromise on functionality, despite their size. These handy kitchen products will occupy minimum space in your kitchen while providing maximum functionality!

1. Hybrid Kitchen Aid

Dubbed the Hybrid Kitchen Aid, this innovative and groundbreaking kitchen appliance is designed to support and boast multiutility while excelling in adaptability, economical use, and storage efficiency.

Why is it noteworthy?

It is an exceptional design that merges the functions of multiple devices into one compact and adaptable machine. The classic French press inspires it and allows you to execute tasks such as blending, grinding, and kneading, creating an all-in-one solution for your kitchen needs.

What we like

  • Features inversion of the motor placement, a deviation from traditional food processors
  • Features a telescopic arm as well

What we dislike

  • It’s a conceptual design, so we don’t know how well it will translate into a real product

2. Jamonero

Meet the Jamonero, the creation of a Barcelona-based design that created a unique solution to accommodate ham stands in your kitchen. The folding ham stand is designed to hold your ham in place while you slice it.

Why is it noteworthy?

When you don’t need Jamonero, you can fold and tuck it away into a drawer to make space for other kitchen accessories. It is an extremely useful kitchen product for when your dining table or kitchen isn’t large enough.

What we like

  • Features an anti-slip feature that keeps the holder and ham in place
  • Quite easy to clean and maintain

What we dislike

  • Certain users may be uncomfortable using wood to hold their meat, and there is no alternative material available for them

3. Iron Frying Plate

This innovative kitchen product is called the Iron Frying Plate, and it’s a multifunctional design that you can use to serve your food or as a frying pan with a removable handle. It is a unique and refreshing new method to combine cooking and eating!

Click Here to Buy Now: $69

Why is it noteworthy?

The Iron Frying Plate is a super cool design as it merges a frying pan and serving plate, offering a functional and elegant solution for cooking and serving. It introduces an ingenious new cooking method, that facilitates direct-from-the-pan serving, allowing you to use one product to fulfill two kitchen needs, and eliminating the requirement for more appliances.

What we like

  • The wooden handle can be attached and detached as and when needed, allowing the product to transform

What we dislike

  • It is made from iron, making it heavier than conventional frying pans, so it can be tough to handle and store

4. Home Garden

Named Home Garden, this herb garden allows you to have access to fresh greens all year round without sacrificing precious real estate in your home or causing a major mess. It has a neat compact form that works great for small urban apartments or big suburban houses.

Why is it noteworthy?

The designer drew inspiration for this design from his own life. “My mom is a real culinary virtuoso and she often complains about the lack of specific greens in the store. And then I got the idea to design a home garden that will be built into the kitchen and will delight with greenery all year round,” he explains.

What we like

  • Equipped with an integrated smart system that monitors the moisture and temperature of plants

What we dislike

  • We’re unsure whether it can be customized and tailored to personal requirements

5. Playful Palm Grater

Named the Playful Palm Grater, this playful little product is designed to add some functionality and fun to your kitchen and dining life and space. It fits perfectly into the palm of your hand!

Click Here to Buy Now: $25

Why is it noteworthy?

Designed to be a charming and functional product, the Playful Palm Grater resembles a curled piece of paper. Made from a single aluminum alloy plate, and it is available in different color options.

What we like

  • Has a unique and minimal form that offers a firm grip
  • Makes a simple act like grating fun and playful, as well as convenient and efficient

What we dislike

  • Since it is quite small in size, it isn’t the best option to grate large amounts of food

6. NinJA’s Kitchen Knives

The NiNJA’s kitchen knives are fashionable and attention-grabbing, owing to their sleek black blades. The color gives them a refined and sophisticated look, providing the knives with a modern and effective upgrade.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99

Why is it noteworthy?

There is almost no other embellishment on the blade other than the discreet “i” logo, removing any potential distraction. Like a ninja hiding in the shadows or a secret agent in a black suit, these knives stealthily move in for the kill, cutting ingredients with precision and grace.

What we like

  • Built from molybdenum vanadium steel, known for its highly durable sharpness
  • Coated with titanium for increased wear resistance

What we dislike

  • Given only one aesthetic option, we don’t have a range of colors/options to match our kitchen

7. Cucinotta

Dubbed Cucinotta, this mini kitchen with large eyes and slender legs is designed by Adriano Design for the Italian kitchen appliances manufacturer Fabita. It is a compact and easily portable design that can snugly fit into any corner of your home.

Why is it noteworthy?

It measures less than half a square meter, and it is equipped with an induction cooktop, hood, and a large utility drawer that can also be used as a fridge. It is powered by a single cord!

What we like

  • Features a wireless charging space for mobile devices
  • Effortlessly merges with any space it is placed into

What we dislike

  • There doesn’t seem to be any option for customization

8. Precision Chef Kitchen Scissors

These sleek, innovative, and good-looking shears are called the Precision Chef Kitchen Scissors, and they let you cut through your food efficiently and swiftly. They make cutting meat and all kinds of food super smooth and effortless.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99

Why is it noteworthy?

The scissors are black, creating an image of power and style while letting them occupy an intimidating and impressive position in your dining table or kitchen. They can easily cut through your steak, pizza, veggies, and more with finesse and functionality.

What we like

  • Feature a specially designed curved serrated blade that makes cutting meat effortless and safe
  • Multifunctional tool that provides precise cutting

What we dislike

  • There are no different color options, it is only available in black, which could be boring for some users

9. Walker Juicer

Dubbed the Walker Juicer, this is a compact juicer without all the bulk. It is a masticating juicer that doesn’t incorporate too much heat or oxygen into the juicing process and is largely preferred over centrifugal juicers when it comes to nutritional value.

Why is it noteworthy?

It incorporates parts of the masticating juicer and places them in its main body to create a compact and space-saving build that doesn’t compromise the juice’s nutritional value.

What we like

  • Can be assembled and disassembled easily
  • Saves space and produces healthful juices

What we dislike

  • Looks a bit difficult to clean and maintain

10. Elizabat

Named the Elizabat, this adorable little bat scissor by OTOTO is designed to add some fun and flavor to your kitchen. The scissor is quite easy to grip on the inside, as well as the outside.

Why is it noteworthy?

This pair of culinary scissors helps you cut, chop, and slice away at veggies and herbs in the kitchen. It features a clever blade design which also serves as a bottle opener, while the gap between the handles serves as a nut-cracker.

What we like

  • Features an ergonomic profile that is quite comfortable to use

What we dislike

  • The scissor looks quite adorable and can be mistaken for a toy, so it needs to be kept away from children

The post Top 10 Compact Tools & Appliances That Are The Ultimate Space-Saving Hacks For Your Kitchen first appeared on Yanko Design.

Home tools displayed as chess pieces in unique metal display

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When you’re living alone for the first time, one of the things that people advice you to have at home is a box of tools for whenever something needs tinkering or fixing. I do have one but it’s mostly just stuck in a drawer somewhere since I don’t really know how to tinker or fix things. But for those who use these tools a lot, this concept for a set of tools and how they are stored would be pretty interesting.

Designer: Seongjae Park

Tips for Chess combines metal tools and a chess set so fans of these two will probably be interested to have such a thing displayed in their homes. In fact, even if you don’t use them a lot, it’s still an interesting piece to have in your home and may fool people into thinking you’re a toolhead or a chess aficionado. This is mainly made from metal, from the “chess board” to the various tools included in the set.

The different chess pieces are represented by different kinds of tools. You get hexagonal wrenches with different sizes to serve as your pawns. The rook is the square and triangular wrench, the Bishop is the crosshead screwdriver, while the Knight is a a flat-blade screwdriver. Representing the main pieces are the hexagonal wrench as the Queen and the U-shaped screwdriver as the King. In case you won’t be able to remember which is which, the chess roles and the tool roles are imprinted on the bottom of the tip.

To make it even more interesting (or confusing to people like me) the chessboard itself also provides information. The coordinate system (right angle and straight line) provides a scale of cm and inches. I would probably just have this as a display since it’s too pretty to actually use although they are built to be functional. Also, as mentioned, I don’t know how to use them so they’ll just be on display at home.

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8-in-1 EDC multitool scissors are the perfect sidekick for your urban and outdoor adventures

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All of us are probably familiar with the feeling of helplessness when we encounter a problem that we can’t solve without some equipment. Even worse, we’re often caught unprepared when we do bring along some tools and, much to our exasperation, discover that we are actually missing the right tool for the job. It’s nearly impossible to bring along all possible tools you can think of, not unless you’re actually a handyman carrying a toolbox with you all the time. That’s why multi-functional tools have become quite popular these days, and this rather ingenious take on that design crams no less than eight functions in a pair of handsome scissors small enough to fit on your palm.

Designer: Eiger Design

Click Here to Buy Now: $50 $59 (15% off at checkout). Hurry, Thanksgiving deal ends in 48 hours!

Having scissors in your EDC kit is nothing new, especially in places where you can legally stash sharp tools to be ready for any eventuality. Most of these scissors often come in foldable forms to save up space, but this design often sacrifices power for the sake of size. These are also single-purpose tools that offer nothing beyond cutting and snipping objects, presuming they’re thin and weak enough for that.

The Eiger Tool 8-in-1 Multi-functional Scissors proves that you don’t have to make sacrifices just to keep something small. Even without resorting to a foldable mechanism, these tiny shears reach only 13cm or 5.1 inches, enough to fit in your hand, pocket, and definitely any bag. Even with that size, however, the scissors’ cutting ability isn’t compromised and it can even cut through food ingredients, including pieces of meat.

As the name suggests, cutting is just one of the small scissors’ eight functions. Almost every side and part of the scissors’ body is used efficiently to provide a critical function that you’ll need when you’re on the go. One of the handles, for example, can be used to open lids, while both handles can crush nut shells or hold caps for easier twisting. One of the blades has cutouts for a bottle opener, a can opener, and a degasser, while the other blade also functions as a small knife. Those are 8 distinct use cases that this tool can handle without taking up any additional space in your bag or pocket.

Even with all the features crammed into a single tool, these palm-sized scissors are still made with aesthetics, usability, and durability in mind. An oxidation coating technique not only increases the stainless steel’s rust resistance, it also gives the scissors an elegant black appearance that easily stands out among other EDC tools. The two halves are also easy to detach and reattach, making cleaning a trivial task. Whether you’re crafting crafts indoors or having a stress-free day outdoors, these multi-functional palm-sized scissors will always stay with you, ready to cut through any problem with style.

Click Here to Buy Now: $50 $59 (15% off at checkout). Hurry, Thanksgiving deal ends in 48 hours!






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This rapid-deploy tactical folding knife combines sharpness and style in a handy package

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EDCs or Everyday Carries have become the common person’s version of Batman’s utility belt, cramming as many essential tools as possible in a small bag. Of course, what is “essential” can be different from person to person, with some prioritizing gadgets and electronics, while others have a complete set of handyman tools at their disposal. Whatever your use case might be, there will always come a time when you need to cut or slice something and pocket-sized scissors just won’t do. That’s where the Tekto F2 Bravo folding knife comes in, delivering a sharp and powerful blade that quickly deploys for whatever task you need it. Best of all, its small size and handsome looks make it a perfect addition to any EDC kit.

Designer: Tekto Design

Click Here to Buy Now: $127.50 $149.99 ($22.49 off with coupon code “F2YANKO”). Hurry, deal ends in 48 hours!

Folding knives, even the tactical kind, are a dime a dozen these days, but that doesn’t mean they’re all equal in ability and design. Some look and feel like large weapons for battle, while others are small yet so flimsy that they can barely cut anything worthwhile. Striking the perfect balance between size, strength, ease of use, and aesthetics, is no easy feat, and yet Tekto manages to pull it off again and again, as proven by the F2 Bravo, a handsome tool whose simple beauty belies the cutting power that lies within.

Titanium Accents – With its custom pivot, machined clip, and milled spacer, the F2 Bravo exemplifies a premium, high-end feel that uniquely matches the look and feel of the knife.

Lightweight – The F2 Bravo weighs only 2.4oz (68g) and comes in two different handle materials best known for their lightness and extreme durability, Forged Carbon and G10.

It may have “tactical” in its name, but the Tekto F2 Bravo looks and feels more like a premium tool than a rugged knife. The handle, which comes in Forged Carbon or G10 variants, feels light yet solid, providing confidence in your grip, while titanium accents put it a level above your common folding knives. Recessed liners also give it a rather clean appearance, cementing its image as a high-end product that won’t look out of place in your carry.

Ceramic Ball Bearings – The state-of-the-art ceramic ball bearing mechanism allows the F2 Bravo to deploy the blade rapidly and smoothly with the utmost ease.

The Tekto F2 Bravo is more than just a pretty face, of course. The titanium-coated D2 steel blade offers sharp and precise cuts every time, while its black appearance gives it a more elegant character compared to the typical silver blades of other knives. More importantly, getting access to this powerful blade is quick and easy thanks to a state-of-the-art ceramic ball bearing mechanism that can deploy the blade swiftly and smoothly. And with a discreet liner lock with a strategically placed jimping, you always have a secure hold on the knife, regardless of the difficulty of the task at hand.

Why settle for bulky, unattractive, or ineffective folding knives when you can have the best of all worlds? With a smooth and swift deployment thanks to innovative ceramic ball bearings, and a handsome minimalist design, the Tekto F2 Bravo tactical folding knife is more than just a tool. It is also a timeless and well-thought-out design that would be a welcome addition to your EDC team.

Click Here to Buy Now: $127.50 $149.99 ($22.49 off with coupon code “F2YANKO”). Hurry, deal ends in 48 hours!

The post This rapid-deploy tactical folding knife combines sharpness and style in a handy package first appeared on Yanko Design.

How ELEGOO’s new 3D printers let designers bring their creative ideas to life

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3D printing opened wide the floodgates of creativity, allowing anyone that can afford a 3D printer to give physical form to their dreams. This freedom and wide availability are critical for an industry that has been under the thumbs of large manufacturing plants. More than just the convenience they offer, 3D printers also deliver faster innovation, improving processes and materials more quickly in order to enable even more objects to be produced with more efficiency and economy. This is where ELEGOO comes in, one of the most prolific brands in the 3D printing market, showing off its expertise by launching not one, not even two, but six new 3D printers to meet the varied needs of designers and creators of every level.

Designer: ELEGOO

ELEGOO FDM Neptune 4 and Neptune 4 Pro

When talking about 3D printers, most will probably be familiar with the kind that pushes filaments of material out of heated nozzles. These FDM 3D printers are known to be fast and convenient, but there’s still plenty of room for improvement, improvements that the new ELEGOO Neptune 4 siblings bring in droves. Thanks to a quiet Klipper motherboard and a faster processor, the Neptune 4 and Neptune 4 Pro can reach speeds of up to 500mm/s, rated to be 10 times faster than most desktop 3D printers.

Despite the speed bump, the Neptune 4 also brings more stability and accuracy, thanks to tensioning adjustment devices on both X and Y axes as well a wider Y-axis. The Neptune 4 Pro takes these upgrades even further with a more intelligent segmented heatbed with better over-temperature protection, making sure that things don’t get too hot for the filament to bond properly.

LCD Saturn 3 and Saturn 3 Ultra

LCD 3D printers have the advantage of printing out finer details, but that also depends on the resolution of the monochrome LCD screen that guides the light that treats the resin in the vat. Both the ELEGOO Saturn 3 and Saturn 3 Ultra reach for the stars with a revolutionary 12k 11,520×5120 screen, allowing designers to create ultra-high quality and clearer pieces for projects such as jewelry or life-like models. With speeds reaching 150mm per hour, these two additions to LCD 3D printer lineup even one-up their predecessors, offering three times faster output.

Even better, the printers look stunning on your desk or worktable. With a sleek black metal base and red or black protective glass, the 3D printers scream futuristic technology, which is exactly what they bring to your creative endeavors.

LCD Mars 4 and Mars 4 Ultra

Not all creators might be able to afford all the bells and whistles, however, so the ELEGOO Mars 4 and Mars 4 Ultra bring no-compromise entry-level options to the market. That said, the 9K 8520×4320 LCD screen is no joke, delivering sufficient details to make gaming miniatures spring to life. A plug-in air purifier creates a healthier and more pleasant environment, making these stylish LCD 3D printers suitable for use in a wide range of fields, including STEM education.

Whatever the need or budget, ELEGOO’s new range of 3D printers has got you covered. Whether you’re making accessories, printing figures, assembling parts, or creating art, these 3D printers will deliver fast, stable, and safe printing experiences to let your creativity fly.

The post How ELEGOO’s new 3D printers let designers bring their creative ideas to life first appeared on Yanko Design.

Curved ruler avoids smudging using a beautiful and elegant design

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Rulers are one of the most ancient draftsmanship tools humans have come up with, serving both as a measuring device as well as a guide for drawing straight lines. Its design has barely changed over the centuries, still traditionally a long and flat stick of wood, metal, or plastic. There have recently been a few wild ideas on how to improve the experience, but many of those completely change the design to the point that the tool is unidentifiable as a ruler. Not all improvements have to be that drastic or revolutionary, however. Sometimes, you just need to think outside the box just a bit to produce a new design that is not only more usable than a regular ruler but also more attractive, like this ruler concept with sexy curves that make it double as a piece of decoration on your desk.

Designers: Chung Ping Lun, Kuo Kai Lei (Medium2 Studio)

On the one hand, there is no need for a ruler to be overly complex, and its simple design has proven to work for centuries. On the other hand, it’s neither the most efficient design nor the most beautiful unless you add so many elaborate embellishments that end up getting in the way of the tool’s usability. Traditional rulers, in particular, risk smearing or smudging the paper because its flat body is always in contact with the surface underneath.

Some more creative designs have the edges of the ruler raised so that you don’t drag the ink or graphite across the edge, which may lead to accidental smearing or bleeding. That, however, doesn’t solve the problem of the ruler itself smudging the marks beneath it. The Ruler_C concept tweaks the design just a little bit to minimize how much contact the ruler makes with the paper or surface beneath it, resulting in an unusual form that turns out to be pleasant to look at as well.

Instead of being completely flat, the Ruler_C’s body curves up toward one side so that only one long edge and both short edges are ever in contact with the drawing surface. This minimizes how much damage the ruler could cause while also improving the tool’s usability. It’s a small change that few would have probably considered but it is an effective one nonetheless.

It also gives the Ruler_C an interesting shape that immediately calls attention to itself without being loud and showy. The gentle slope and anodized aluminum material give it a touch of elegance that you might not expect from such a mundane tool. Even the packaging, which comes as a sliding box, has been modified to visually mimic the way light bounces off the Ruler_C’s curved body. This, in turn, makes the ruler more than just a tool but also a designer product worth showing off on your desk.

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This modular smart ruler removes the headaches of measuring with different units and scales

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You’ve probably heard of the advice to measure twice and cut once, which is both metaphorical and literal. It’s not easy to get a measure right the first time, especially if you’re using an analog tool. Things get even more complicated when you have to juggle different units, scales, and other factors that make a plain, old ruler clearly inadequate. There is a new breed of digital measuring devices that try to remedy the situation, but these are mostly useless when you need to measure something that’s already on paper or on your desk. For these tasks, a flat and long ruler is still the best tool for the job, but this innovative smart ruler takes that age-old tool to the next level, providing precision, convenience, and customization right at your fingertips.

Designer: Tiancheng Liang

Click Here to Buy Now: $89 $129 ($40 off). Less than 72 hours left! Raised over $500,000.

The typical long, rectangular ruler serves two primary purposes. One is to measure something in a straight line, and the other is to draw one, sometimes with an exact length. Common rulers might be enough for most people, but professionals need more than just seeing things in metric and inches. NeoRuler turns the idea of what a ruler can do on its head, giving designers, architects, engineers, and everyone in between a tool that adapts to their needs rather than forcing users to adapt to the tool’s limitations.

Switch between Metric and Imperial in one swipe without multiple calculations.

Get 90 Built-in scales for maximum versatilities.

Equal divide space quickly in any length without any calculation.

A typical ruler would have marks for inches and centimeters or millimeters, but those aren’t the only units you need to consider when measuring or drawing lines. Sometimes you have to measure things in both feet and inches, or you might need only fractional figures. The NeoRuler can show all these variations on a single tool and can change the ticks to the appropriate unit. The bright 1.14-inch LCD display clearly shows not only the unit you’re using but also 90 built-in scales. No more guessing or calculating by hand how you’ll make the house floor plan fit on paper!

NeoRuler’s impressive feat is made possible by a tiny computer embedded in its durable aluminum alloy frame. There is also a dynamic array of 300 LED lights lined up on the edge of the ruler, changing ticks and marks in a snap. Need to only measure a small segment? Simply slide the Neo Pointer and watch the ticks light up its trail. You no longer have to juggle numbers in your head just to divide a line into equal parts. Simply decide how many sections you need, and NeoRuler will show exactly where you need to draw the line.

Neo Pointer – Excel measuring detail.

Neo PenHolder – Empower drawing precisions.

Neo Magnifier – Magnify reading accuracy.

Neo Caliper – Enhance object measurement.

Even with these core functions, the NeoRuler is already a major evolution of the ruler, but it doesn’t stop there. This creative invention embraces a modular design that extends its capabilities without making the device more complicated. Don’t trust your shaky hand to draw a straight line even with a ruler? The Neo PenHolder allows you to just glide across the paper without worry. Can’t see the super fine details of a blueprint? The Neo Magnifier helps you make more accurate readings and better assessments. Need to measure something that’s not on paper or a flat surface? The Neo Caliper removes the need for yet another tool to clutter your desk.

Many of the analog tools we already have today work well enough, but that doesn’t mean there is no room for improvement. When flexibility and accuracy are critical to success, a simple ruler just won’t cut it. For only $89, the NeoRuler brings not only a precise measuring tool but also a multifunctional device that makes sure you will be able to measure and draw with complete confidence, even if you only measure once.

Click Here to Buy Now: $89 $129 ($40 off). Less than 72 hours left! Raised over $500,000.

The post This modular smart ruler removes the headaches of measuring with different units and scales first appeared on Yanko Design.