Materials // Specs
WHAT IT IS MADE OF
A full specification of the polymers, fabric, hardware, and finishes used in every Variable Objects sculptural bag. Read like a spec sheet, because it is one.
Bill of materials
- PLA (polylactic acid)
- Printed directly onto power mesh fabric. Rigid, non-toxic, food-contact rated. Sourced from suppliers with full MSDS documentation. Softens above 140°F (60°C).
- Power mesh fabric
- The PLA prints directly into the mesh during the build. The mechanical bond between rigid polymer and flexible textile produces a panel stronger than either material on its own.
- TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane)
- Used for the interior lining of every bag. Flexible, abrasion-resistant, and dimensionally stable.
- Metal hardware
- Small metal hardware components are installed during assembly for durability and structural integrity.
- Magnetic closure
- Each bag uses a magnetic closure, set and tested during the assembly stage.
- Hexagonal lattice
- The hex pattern distributes force evenly across the panel — the same logic insects use for hives. Maximum strength with minimum material.
SHELL
Structural panels
BACKING
Substrate
LINING
Interior
HARDWARE
Mounts & rings
CLOSURE
Opening mechanism
GEOMETRY
Surface pattern
Form factor
Dimensions
EXTERIOR
9″ × 4″ × 7″
CARRY
Crossbody
CAPACITY
Phone, wallet, keys, small pouch, sunglasses
Maintenance
Care instructions
- Cleaning
- Wipe shell with a damp cloth. Do not machine wash.
- Chemicals
- Do not bleach. Avoid solvents.
- Heat
- Do not expose above 140°F (60°C). PLA softens.
- Water
- Shell is water-resistant. Mesh backing is breathable, not waterproof. Light rain only — do not submerge.
Safety
Material safety
Every material used in a Variable Objects bag has a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) on file. Suppliers are vetted and documented. PLA is non-toxic, derived from renewable plant resources (cornstarch), and rated for food contact.
Products are suitable for adults and creative teens 14 and up. Not intended for children under 14.
PROP 65 NOTICE →Material FAQ
Common questions
- What is the bag made of?
- PLA (polylactic acid) printed directly onto power mesh fabric forms the structural shell. TPU is used for the interior lining. Small metal hardware provides durability and structure, with a magnetic closure. All materials include Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS).
- Is PLA safe?
- Yes. PLA is derived from renewable resources (cornstarch), is non-toxic, and is food-contact rated. All Variable Objects materials come with Material Safety Data Sheets. We source only from verified suppliers with complete documentation.
- Is the bag durable?
- Yes. PLA has excellent rigidity, and the mechanical bond with the power mesh creates a panel that is stronger than either material alone. The hexagonal lattice distributes force evenly — maximum structural strength with minimum material.
- Is the bag waterproof?
- The PLA hex shell is water-resistant. The power mesh backing is breathable, not waterproof. Light rain is fine. Do not submerge.
- How do I clean it?
- Wipe the PLA shell with a damp cloth. Do not machine wash. Do not bleach. Do not expose to temperatures above 140°F (60°C) — PLA softens at high heat.
- What are the dimensions?
- Exterior dimensions are 9″ × 4″ × 7″. Fits a phone, wallet, keys, a small cosmetics pouch, sunglasses case, and a few smaller items. It is a crossbody carry, not a tote.
- What 3D printers are used?
- Bambu Lab P1S for single-color runs and Bambu Lab H2D for dual-color colorways. The H2D handles both filaments simultaneously, which keeps multi-color transitions clean.