Upstream Keychain

Upstream

The Upstream Keychain is sustainably crafted from reclaimed aluminum scraps and discarded cans, giving new life to waste materials and emphasizing environmental responsibility in every piece
Recycled Aluminum
The Upstream Keychain was created as part of a market-driven design course that challenged students to develop products using diverted materials, emphasizing sustainability and creativity. This constraint inspired a thoughtful approach to design, ensuring the final product was both functional and eco-conscious. After refining the concept and fabrication process, we brought the keychains to life and had the opportunity to sell them at the Firefly Handmade Market in Boulder, CO, in November 2023—an annual outdoor market for local artisans to showcase their craft.

Form Exploration

Midterm Prototype

Fabrication Process

We began by crushing reclaimed aluminum cans and melting them in a furnace. Using a sandcasting method, we created molds from 3D-printed models and poured molten aluminum into the molds to form the desired shapes.

After the aluminum cooled, we removed the excess material and cleaned and polished each cast to achieve a refined finish. A hole was drilled to accommodate the key ring, and the final touch involved laser etching. By applying laser etching spray, we transferred unique trout tail patterns onto each keychain.

Packaging

The packaging was carefully designed to showcase three different species of trout that each fish was modeled after, shown through the patterns and shape of the tails. Taking the shape of an aluminum can, the packaging honors the material while highlighting the story of pollution and the importance of recycling.