# Laser-Cut Paper Containers The Gradation and Cube Air Vases are Lightweight and Strong By Meghan Young | Published 2012-01-27 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/gradation-and-cube-air-vases References: [todayandtomorrow.net](http://www.todayandtomorrow.net/2012/01/24/air-vases/) & [torafu](http://torafu.com/) The Gradation and Cube Air Vases are impressively made out of paper. Like their predecessor, the [Mold the Air Vase](http://www.trendhunter.com/trends/air-vase-by-torafu-architects), these two new additions are malleable and versatile. Unlike the past design, they boast more intricate patterns for which they were named after. Designed by Japanese studio Torafu Architects for Ligne Roset and Cinna, the Gradation and Cube Air Vases were presented during the Maison & Objet exhibition in Paris. The patterns of each vase were printed onto [paper discs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/paper-curves) that were then laser cut in order for them to be expanded into bowls and vases. Although thin and lightweight enough for people to question their durability, the vases gain more tension and strength when pulled out. [Vibrantly colorful](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pavilion-set), the Gradation and Cube Air Vases can be manipulated into unexpected directions. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.6/10 - Popularity: 60% | Activity: 71% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 30% men, 70% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Laser-cut Paper Products:** Laser-cutting technology presents an opportunity for creating unique, lightweight, and durable paper products. - **Malleable and Versatile Designs:** Intricate patterns and malleability of paper-based products provides a disruptive innovation opportunity for creating customizable and adaptable designs. - **Unexpected 3D Shapes and Forms:** Laser-cutting technology allows for the creation of unusual and complex 3D shapes and forms that challenge traditional manufacturing methods. ### Who This Affects Most - **Packaging:** Laser-cut paper containers offer a sustainable, customizable, and innovative packaging solution for various industries, including cosmetics and food products. - **Home Decor:** Malleable and versatile designs of laser-cut paper products provide an opportunity for creating unique and customizable designs for home decor, including lamps and wall art. - **Fashion Accessories:** Laser-cutting technology allows for the creation of intricate and unique patterns on lightweight and flexible materials, presenting an opportunity for creating innovative fashion accessories such as jewelry and bags. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Minimalist Illusory Vases](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vaso-gota-vase.md) - [Delicate Colorful Vases](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/delicate-colorful-vase.md) - [Geometry-Inspired Vase Collections](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/triangle-vase-collection.md) - [Gradient Tonal Optical Vases](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/stretch-color.md) - [Personalized Floral Grid Vases](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/grid-vase.md) - [Nature-Inspired 3D-Printed Vases](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/drag-and-drop.md) - [Sculptural Paper Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fragmenti.md) - [Origami-Inspired Vase Lamps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/gingko-smart-vase-light.md) - [Stackable Clay Sculptures](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/torre-vases.md)