PROCESS OF MOTHER GROUND SNEAKER MAKING
STEP 01. SKETCHES
I sketch a form that takes into account various forms and functions, and develops it with a directionality.
The design of the first sneakers JI(地 means ‘ground’ in chinese)’s upper was transformed and developed through a variety of sketches, taking a motif from native American moccasins. The finished product has almost no moccasin shape, but the motif remains in the basic concept and the shape of the foot. Outsoles are designed inspired by natural textures such as contour lines or wood grain. I wanted to design it so that the texture could be imaginable without being conceived.
The upper of the second sneaker RO (路 means ‘road’ in chinese) was sketched by adding the identity of mother ground to the upper of a simple training shoe. The outsole is sketched while imagining a natural path or valley that curves under the canyon. Although it is a miniature of nature, I sketched it would be nice to feel the meaning even when it was left as a footprint.
Designed by MOTHER GROUND
Sketched by MOTHER GROUND
Inspired by mother nature
STEP 02. 3D MODELING
Because the outsole needs to be molded, an accurate 3D simulation is required. To this end, 3D modeling and printing were carried out. From the first outsole to the second outsole 3D modeling, Designer Choi Hyun-woo implemented the details. This is a method of mass-producing outsoles by making molds after completing CAD drawings based on 3D data. 3D printing was conducted by BKID and Super 3DM.
Designed by MOTHER GROUND
3D Modeling by Hyunwoo Choi
3D Printing by BKID / Super 3DM
STEP 03. PROTO TYPING & SAMPLING
The first sneaker JI(地)started brand planning and design in March 2016, and refined the design by making various prototypes and samples, revising and supplementing it several times. Various prototypes were produced, from prototypes using clay soil and isopink to samples made with Vulcanized Outsole. Through this process, various prototypes were produced. The final design was established.
The second sneaker RO (路)began designing in July 2018, and was tested for functionality and productivity through the process of clay soil, isopink, 3D printing and wood molding, and through 3-4 mold modification processes.
Designed by MOTHER GROUND
Sampling by MOTHER GROUND / Works company / Samyoung Sys.co
Outsole Mold by Buyoung Mold Co.
STEP 04. MANUFACTURING
Following the above steps, Booyoung Mold Co. produced outsole molds by size, Samyoung System Co., Ltd. ordered fabrics and subsidiary materials, and mass-produced them in Sasang-gu, Busan.
Since mass production of Mother ground began at the end of 2016, Samyoung Systems has been producing all of Mother ground's sneakers until now. Founded in 2003, Samyoung Systems has produced shoes and sneakers for brands of Kolon, Hwaseung, Cheil Industries, Geumgang, Shinsung Tongsang, and E-Land as well as products from European, Japanese and American companies. Samyoung Systems participated in the entire process from the prototype stage to development and production of Mother ground's first sneakers. The outsole mold production and development is being carried out by Booyoung Mold, a partner company of Samyoung Systems.
Sketch – 3D modeling – Prototype (+3D printing/wood mold production) – Mold production – Sample production – Midsole/outsole production-Original subsidiary material order – Materials Cutting – Post-processing such as print/high frequency – Sewing – Assembly – Inspection – Packaging
Made in Korea, Busan
Manufactured by Samyoung System Co.,ltd
Metallic mold by Buyoung Mold Co.,ltd