Object Timeline

1997

  • Work on this object began.

2014

  • We acquired this object.

2018

2025

  • You found it!

Shape Memory Scissors

This is a scissors. It was designed by Naoyoshi Machida and manufactured by UKAI-RIKI/Gifu Seki Cutlery Industry Association. It is dated 1997 and we acquired it in 2014. Its medium is steel, polyurethane resin. It is a part of the Product Design and Decorative Arts department.

The Shape Memory Scissors are ergonomically designed and customizable for each user. Made with a flexible plastic, the handles’ shape can be adjusted when heated and are reminiscent of highly elastic legs observed in some species of insects and other animals.

This object was donated by Gallery 91. It is credited Gift of Gallery 91.

Its dimensions are

L x W x D: 27.3 × 6.4 × 1 cm (10 3/4 × 2 1/2 × 3/8 in.)

Cite this object as

Shape Memory Scissors; Designed by Naoyoshi Machida; Manufactured by UKAI-RIKI/Gifu Seki Cutlery Industry Association; steel, polyurethane resin; L x W x D: 27.3 × 6.4 × 1 cm (10 3/4 × 2 1/2 × 3/8 in.); Gift of Gallery 91; 2014-47-10

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If you would like to cite this object in a Wikipedia article please use the following template:

<ref name=CH>{{cite web |url=https://www-6.collection.cooperhewitt.org/objects/51686625/ |title=Shape Memory Scissors |author=Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum |accessdate=24 March 2025 |publisher=Smithsonian Institution}}</ref>