Top 5 specifications, top 5 constraints

Goals

1. Visually Striking Balance – I want my cyber netcore pieces to achieve a perfect visual tension between chaos and order, where the technological components create immediate visual interest while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. Success means people’s first reaction is “wow” rather than confusion.
2. Actually Wearable – Despite using rigid components like keyboard keys and circuit boards, I want the final pieces to be genuinely comfortable and practical enough to wear for several hours. If I can wear the vest and headwear to an event without constant adjustment or discomfort, I’ll consider this a success.
3. Technological Storytelling – Each piece should tell a visual story about our relationship with technology without needing explanation. The arrangement of components should feel intentional and evocative rather than random, creating a narrative about digital obsolescence and rebirth.
4. Tactile Interest – Beyond just looking interesting, I want the pieces to invite touch with varied textures – the smooth plastic of keys contrasting with circuit board ridges and the flexible movement of wires. Success means people want to interact with the pieces, not just view them.
5. Technical Durability – The attachments and construction need to be robust enough that keys don’t fall off and wires don’t unravel with normal movement. Success means the pieces remain intact through multiple wearings without constant repair.

Constraints

1. Attachment Challenges – Finding the right balance between secure attachment methods for the keyboard keys that won’t damage the vest base while still allowing some flexibility will be technically challenging. This constraint will require significant testing and likely some failed attempts.
2. Weight Distribution – The weight of keyboard keys, CDs, and circuit components could make the vest uncomfortable or cause it to hang awkwardly. Managing this weight effectively will be a major engineering challenge.
3. Time Management – Creating these detailed pieces is extremely time-intensive, particularly the careful arrangement and attachment of numerous small components. Finding enough uninterrupted work time to maintain consistency in the design will be difficult.
4. Material Fragility – Some of the recycled components (particularly CDs and circuit boards) can break or crack when being modified. This means I’ll need extra materials and may face limitations in how I can shape these elements.
5. Skill Development – While I have basic crafting skills, the specific techniques needed for secure wire weaving and creating flexible connections between rigid elements will require learning new approaches. The learning curve could slow progress significantly.

The toughest constraints to deal with will likely be the technical attachment challenges and the time management. Finding the right attachment methods will require trial and error that could waste materials and time, while the detailed nature of the work means I can’t rush through any stage of the process without compromising quality.