Kuma is a reusable compact spork that fits in your pocket or the palm of your hand -- it is the culmination of my degree project at the Rhode Island School of Design where I researched and designed around the idea of eating utensils. I am currently running a Kickstarter campaign to bring Kuma to market. Click here for Kuma's kickstarter page and to read more about the project. 

Kuma's design focuses on its portability—its size and shape makes it fit wherever you need it to go. It’s easy to stow away and the perfect companion for your camping trips, your packed lunches, or that new food truck just around the corner. 

Kuma is the culmination of my degree project at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), where I researched and designed around the idea of eating utensils. I am fascinated with eating utensils and how their designs reflect the cultures that created them. From forks, to chopsticks, to even our own hands, what we eat with says something about who we are and where we came from. And growing up in Hawaii with multi-ethnic parents, I constantly experienced this dynamic between food, utensils, and culture.  I fondly remember the times at the dinner table when my father (a first generation immigrant from the Philippines) would put down his utensils to eat a meal he particularly enjoyed with his hands. 

 

My goal with Kuma was to design a utensil that spoke to the ideals of our modern society. We are a more globalized community with almost instant access to unprecedented amounts of information. We are constantly striving to do more, learn more, and experience more of this life around us. At the same time, we have become keenly aware of the effects our existence has had on planet Earth. We are committed to sustainable practices and living not only for our planet but also for those who will come after us. I designed Kuma to be a reusable and convenient alternative to the disposal utensils we often use and throw away when eating out. 

(If you are interested in the topic of eating utensils click here for a list of resources I referred to constantly while developing KUMA. I would be more than happy to chat about this list if you shoot me an email!)

Use Kuma because it is convenient - It'll be there for you during that unexpected lunch with a friend or when you are trying out that new Korean B.B.Q. restaurant.

Use Kuma because it is functional and durable - You can throw it in your pack for that week-long camping trip or your packed lunch for school or for work. 

Use Kuma because it is a sustainable and reusable - a utensil fit for the modern lifestyle.

Kuma and all of its components will be proudly manufactured here in the USA. I am so excited to get to work with my manufacturing partners, all of whom are based in New England. Since I live and work in Rhode Island, I can quickly check in with my manufacturers and resolve any problems that arise. By choosing to work with local manufacturers, Kuma is reducing its supply chain's emissions. 

Kuma will be available in either hardcoat anodized 5052 aluminum or 304 stainless steel. In addition to providing a durable and corrosion resistant finish, hardcoat anodizing allows for vibrant color options. For those interested in stainless steel, stainless steel Kumas will be offered only in a natural metallic finish. Please note that all final Kuma prototypes shown were made out of anodized aluminum. 

If you'd like to learn more about this project please click here for the Kickstarter page. Thanks!