Folks

Cooking is challenging for the blind due to the lack of sensory references. To overcome the steep learning curve, Folks kitchenware leverages on natural, sensory feedback and tactile cues such that they can prepare food safely with confidence and dignity.

The collection consists of three tools – a knife, chopping board and teaspoon. Poor hand postures, irregular ingredients and dull knives result in cuts which dissuade the blind from cooking. The knife has a pivoting guard which protects and guides the fingers like a physical anchor during the cutting process. This encourages blade contact, which reduces the likelihood of getting cut. Food that is stuck on the blade can also be cleared with a simple trigger. After usage, the guard can also be removed for cleaning.

The chopping board is paired with a side tray, which pegs freely on all sides of the board. It acts as an extension of the hand to gather and efficiently transfer ingredients with less spillage; it is natural for people to scoop and transfer ingredients with their hands. Used in any cup/glass/mug, the teaspoon’s integrated buoy floats when liquid is added. It thus becomes a reference point that informs the blind of impending liquid contact. This lowers risks of scalds or burns.