TLE8 FCSQ3W7D3: Problems and Solutions in Choosing Materials

In this lesson, you will focus on what can go wrong when choosing supplies and materials for handicrafts and how to fix or prevent these problems. You will examine situations such as materials that break easily, colors that do not match, items that are unsafe, or projects that go beyond the budget. Through short cases and guiding questions, you will practice thinking like a problem-solver. By the end, you will be ready to suggest practical solutions and choose materials more confidently for future handicraft projects.

• Subject: TLE — Beauty Care and Wellness Services (Handicraft)
• Grade: 8
• Day: 3 of 4

🎯 Learning Goals

By the end of the lesson, you will be able to:

1. Identify common problems that arise from poor selection, planning, and storage of handicraft materials.
2. Suggest realistic solutions or alternatives when materials are weak, unavailable, unsafe, or over budget.
3. Apply a simple problem-solving process to real or simulated handicraft planning situations.

🧩 Key Ideas & Terms

• Specification – A clear description of what is needed in a material, such as size, color, thickness, or type.
• Substitute material – A different material used when the first choice is unavailable, too costly, or unsuitable.
• Defective material – A material that has damage or quality problems, such as stains, cracks, or uneven thickness.
• Stock-out – A situation where a material is temporarily or permanently not available in a store or supplier.
• Trial sample – A small test piece or sample made before producing the full handicraft product.
• Contingency plan – A backup plan prepared in case something goes wrong with materials or supplies.
• Compatibility – The ability of materials and adhesives to work well together without damage or failure.

🔄 Quick Recall / Prior Knowledge

Connect today’s focus on problems and solutions with your previous lessons on supplies, materials, and planning.

1. From Day 1, how did we define supplies and materials?
   Show Answer

   Supplies are the tools and helpers used during the crafting process (for example, scissors, glue, needles). Materials are the substances that become part of the finished product (for example, fabric, beads, paper).
2. From Day 2, what is a bill of materials (BOM)?
   Show Answer

   A BOM is a list of all the materials (and sometimes supplies) needed for a project, including quantities and sometimes costs.
3. Describe one way that choosing the wrong material can affect a handicraft product.
   Show Answer

   It may break easily, look unattractive, be uncomfortable or unsafe for users, or make the product more expensive than necessary.
4. Recall one environmental or cultural factor you considered when choosing materials on Day 2.
   Show Answer

   Sample answers: using local plant-based materials to support the community, choosing recycled items to reduce waste, or respecting traditional materials used in local crafts.

📖 Explore the Lesson

How to use this section: Read through six checkpoints. Each checkpoint has a mini-goal, guided discussion, real-life tie-in, mini-summary, and three guiding questions with answers hidden.

Checkpoint 1 – When Materials Fail: Weak, Fragile, or Unsafe

Mini-goal: Recognize problems that happen when materials are not strong or safe enough for the product’s purpose.

Guided discussion: Imagine giving a friend a handmade tote bag that you are proud of. On the first day of use, the handle breaks because the fabric is too thin and the stitching is weak. The gift you meant to be helpful becomes a source of embarrassment. This is a classic example of choosing materials that do not match the product’s purpose. Weak materials may be fine for light decorations but are not suited for items that carry heavy objects or face daily use.

Other failures are related to safety. For example, small loose beads on items for very young children can become choking hazards. Sharp metal edges or poorly finished wooden surfaces can cause cuts or splinters. Some paints or adhesives may not be food-safe, so they should not be used on items that touch food, such as plates or utensils. These problems can be avoided by checking the product’s purpose, reading labels, and testing materials on a small scale before final use.

Real-life tie-in: Commercial manufacturers conduct quality tests on products (like shaking a bag filled with weights) before selling them. As a student crafter, you may not have advanced tools, but you can still do simple strength tests and safety checks using your hands and observations.

Mini-summary: When materials are too weak or unsafe, products may break easily or risk harming users. Matching material strength and safety to the product’s purpose is a basic responsibility of every crafter.

1. Give one example of a product that failed because the material was too weak.
   Show Answer

   Examples: a bracelet that snapped because the thread was thin; a bag handle that tore because the fabric was too light; a paper box that collapsed because the cardboard was too soft.
2. How can you test the strength of a material before making many products?
   Show Answer

   Make a small sample (trial) and use it like the real product—pull, bend, or put light weight on it to see if it holds.
3. What safety reminder should you remember when using small embellishments like beads on items for children?
   Show Answer

   Attach them very securely or avoid using them on items for very young children, because loose pieces can cause choking.

Checkpoint 2 – Wrong Color, Wrong Texture: Appearance Problems

Mini-goal: Identify problems related to color, pattern, and texture when materials do not match the design.

Guided discussion: Sometimes the problem is not strength but appearance. You might plan a calm, pastel-themed bracelet, but the only available beads are very bright and shiny. Or you choose a fabric with a busy pattern for a small pouch, and the design looks crowded and messy. Color and pattern affect how people feel when they see or use a product. If colors clash or patterns fight with each other, the finished craft may look confusing instead of beautiful.

Texture matters too. Rough materials may scratch the skin if used for clothing or accessories. Very slippery fabrics may be hard to sew and may not hold shape. When materials feel uncomfortable or look unattractive, people are less likely to use or buy the product, even if it is strong and well-made. This means appearance is not “just extra” but an important part of crafting decisions.

Real-life tie-in: Designers spend a lot of time choosing color palettes and textures for clothing, furniture, and even cellphone cases. They know that people react strongly to how objects look and feel. As a young crafter, you are also making design decisions, even on small projects.

Mini-summary: Materials with the wrong color, pattern, or texture can ruin a good design. Checking appearance early and using simple combinations helps prevent visual problems.

1. Why might a very busy patterned fabric be a poor choice for a small coin purse?
   Show Answer

   Because the design might look crowded and confusing on a small surface, making it hard to see details and decorations.
2. What can you do if your planned color of beads is not available at the store?
   Show Answer

   Look for a close alternative color, use a simpler color scheme, or change the design slightly while keeping the overall style.
3. Give one example of a texture that may be uncomfortable for a wearable item.
   Show Answer

   Very rough or scratchy fabric or cord can irritate the skin when used for bracelets, necklaces, or clothing.

Checkpoint 3 – Stock-out and Limited Availability

Mini-goal: Understand how to respond when planned materials are unavailable or out of stock.

Guided discussion: Even with a good bill of materials, the store might not always have what you need. This is called a stock-out. Maybe the specific width of ribbon you planned, or the exact shade of yarn, is sold out. You then face a choice: wait until it becomes available, look for another store, or choose a substitute material. For school projects with deadlines, waiting is often not possible, so you must think creatively within the time and budget you have.

Choosing a substitute material means going back to your project’s specifications. What features are most important? If you are making a strong handle, thickness and strength matter more than exact color. If you are making a decorative wall hanging, color and texture may be more important. Knowing which requirements are flexible and which are non-negotiable helps you choose a good replacement instead of just grabbing any available item.

Real-life tie-in: Many small businesses experienced stock-out during times of transport delays or high demand. Those who survived found ways to adjust designs, use alternative materials, or partner with new suppliers while still meeting customer needs.

Mini-summary: When chosen materials are unavailable, crafters must review the product’s requirements and find suitable substitutes that still meet the purpose and quality needed.

1. Your plan calls for 2 cm-wide ribbon, but only 1 cm-wide ribbon is available. How might you adjust your design?
   Show Answer

   You could double the 1 cm ribbons (use two side by side), choose a different decorative element, or adjust the size of the bow while still keeping the style.
2. Which is usually more important for a bag handle: exact color or strength of the material? Why?
   Show Answer

   Strength is more important because the handle must safely support weight. Color is important but can be adjusted more easily.
3. What is one advantage of listing possible substitute materials during the planning stage?
   Show Answer

   It saves time and stress later because you already know safe alternatives if the first choice is unavailable.

Checkpoint 4 – Budget Problems and Hidden Costs

Mini-goal: Analyze how poor material choices can cause budget problems and learn strategies to avoid them.

Guided discussion: A common problem in handicraft planning is going over budget. This can happen when you miscalculate quantities, forget to include certain items, or choose materials that are more expensive than needed. For example, buying imported decorative paper for a project that will be used only once might not be practical when local paper is available. Small items, such as buttons or beads, can also add up quickly if not tracked.

Hidden costs include transportation, small tools, or replacement materials when mistakes are made. To reduce these problems, crafters update their bill of materials, compare prices in different stores, and consider bulk buying if the same materials will be used in many projects. They also prepare a small allowance in the budget (contingency) in case prices change or extra items are needed.

Real-life tie-in: In business, poor cost control can lead to products that are too expensive for customers or too cheap to cover expenses. Learning to think about costs in school helps prepare you for managing money wisely in future work or entrepreneurship.

Mini-summary: Budget problems often come from miscalculations and unnecessary expensive choices. Careful planning, price comparison, and a small contingency help keep handicraft projects cost-effective.

1. Name one reason why a project’s material cost can become higher than expected.
   Show Answer

   Reasons include underestimating quantity, forgetting some materials, prices increasing, or choosing more expensive materials at the last minute.
2. How can comparing prices in different stores help you?
   Show Answer

   It allows you to find more affordable options with similar quality, helping you stay within budget.
3. What is a simple way to prepare for small unexpected costs?
   Show Answer

   Include a small amount (for example, 5–10% of the total) in your budget as a contingency fund.

Checkpoint 5 – Storage Mistakes and Damaged Materials

Mini-goal: Identify problems caused by poor storage and suggest solutions for protecting materials.

Guided discussion: Even well-chosen materials can become unusable if stored poorly. Paper can wrinkle, tear, or become moldy in damp places. Fabric may fade or discolor under direct sunlight. Beads and buttons may scatter and get lost if kept in open containers. Adhesives may harden, dry out, or spill if not closed properly. When this happens, you might need to buy replacements, increasing costs and delaying projects.

Storage problems are usually preventable. Simple solutions include using boxes, jars, or resealable bags; labeling containers; keeping items off the floor; and checking materials regularly. Separating clean materials from used or dirty ones helps maintain hygiene. For example, if you store clean fabric together with pieces that have been used in another project, dust or stains can transfer.

Real-life tie-in: Professional workshops often have labeled shelves, drawers, and storage rooms. They invest in storage because they know that damaged materials are wasted money. Your personal craft corner can follow the same principle on a smaller scale.

Mini-summary: Poor storage causes damage, waste, and extra costs. Organized, clean, and labeled storage systems keep materials in good condition for future use.

1. Give an example of a material that can be damaged by sunlight and describe how.
   Show Answer

   Colored fabric or paper can fade and lose brightness when left under strong sunlight for long periods.
2. What is one simple storage rule you can apply to small items like beads or buttons?
   Show Answer

   Keep them in closed, labeled containers or small jars so they do not spill or get lost.
3. How can you avoid mixing clean and used materials in the same container?
   Show Answer

   Prepare separate containers or sections labeled “clean/unused” and “used/offcuts” and return items to the correct place after each activity.

Checkpoint 6 – A Simple Problem-Solving Process

Mini-goal: Use a step-by-step approach to solve material-related problems in handicraft projects.

Guided discussion: When something goes wrong with materials, it is easy to panic or blame others. A better approach is to follow a simple problem-solving process: 1) describe the problem clearly, 2) identify the cause, 3) think of possible solutions, 4) choose the best option, and 5) plan how to prevent the same issue next time. This process can be used for small issues, like missing beads, or bigger ones, like a major design change.

For example, if the keychain cord keeps breaking, you first describe the problem: “The cord snaps when I tug the keychain.” Then you identify possible causes: the cord is too thin, tied incorrectly, or damaged by sharp edges. You brainstorm solutions: use thicker cord, change the knot, cover sharp edges. You choose one or two solutions to try and, if successful, update your design and bill of materials. Finally, you note the lesson learned so you do not repeat the same mistake.

Real-life tie-in: Engineers, designers, and entrepreneurs regularly use similar problem-solving methods. Learning this habit in handicraft projects prepares you to face challenges calmly in other subjects and real-life situations.

Mini-summary: A clear, step-by-step problem-solving process helps you turn material problems into learning opportunities and improve your future projects.

1. Write the five simple steps of the problem-solving process described above.
   Show Answer

   1) Describe the problem; 2) Identify the cause; 3) Think of possible solutions; 4) Choose the best option and apply it; 5) Plan how to prevent the problem next time.
2. Why is it important to identify the cause before choosing a solution?
   Show Answer

   If you do not know the true cause, your solution may not work or may even create new problems.
3. How can keeping notes about problems and solutions help you as a crafter?
   Show Answer

   Notes help you remember what worked or failed, improve your designs, and avoid repeating the same mistakes in future projects.

💡 Example in Action

1. Example 1 – Breaking Bracelet Cord
   A group makes beaded bracelets using thin sewing thread. After a few days, several bracelets break. What went wrong and what is one solution?
   Show Answer

   The thread was too thin and not strong enough for beads and daily use. One solution is to change to stronger material such as nylon cord or elastic specifically made for jewelry and retest.
2. Example 2 – Overpriced Bookmark Project
   Learners spend a lot on imported decorative paper for bookmarks. The selling price becomes too high for classmates to buy. How can they adjust?
   Show Answer

   They can switch to local or recycled decorative paper, reduce the number of expensive embellishments, or create a “premium” and a “budget” version of the bookmark.
3. Example 3 – Missing Beads at the Store
   Your design uses blue star-shaped beads, but the store has only round blue beads. What should you do?
   Show Answer

   Review what is essential: color blue may be more important than star shape. You can adjust the design to use round beads while keeping the same color scheme and overall style.
4. Example 4 – Damaged Fabric from Bad Storage
   A piece of cotton fabric was stored in a damp locker and now smells and shows small spots of mold. What is the safest decision?
   Show Answer

   Do not use the moldy fabric for crafts, especially those that will be worn or used at home. Discard it properly and improve storage to keep fabrics dry and clean.
5. Example 5 – Problem-Solving a Weak Bag Handle
   After testing a sample eco-bag, you notice that the handle stitches are pulling out. Apply the five-step problem-solving process briefly.
   Show Answer

   Describe: Handle stitches pull out when loaded. Cause: fabric is thin and stitches are too close to the edge. Solutions: use thicker fabric or interfacing, double-fold the handle area, reinforce stitching. Choose: reinforce handle area and use stronger thread. Prevent: always test bag handles with weight and adjust design before making many pieces.

📝 Try It Out

Use your notebook to work through these practice problems. Then reveal the suggested answers.

1. Describe one material-related problem you have experienced (or can imagine) in a school project.
   Show Answer

   Answers will vary: glue not strong enough, paper tearing, colors not matching, fabric fraying, beads falling off, and so on.
2. For the problem you named in item 1, identify the main cause.
   Show Answer

   Possible causes: wrong type of material, low-quality item, poor technique, using too little adhesive, or not following instructions.
3. Suggest two different solutions for the same problem and choose the better one.
   Show Answer

   Sample: weak glue – solutions: change to stronger glue or use stitching instead of glue. The better solution depends on the product; many will choose stronger glue specially designed for the materials.
4. Plan a simple bill of materials for four identical keychains. Include at least three different materials.
   Show Answer

   Example BOM: Materials – 4 metal rings, 4 pieces of cord (30 cm each), 40 beads. Supplies – scissors, glue, tray for beads.
5. Imagine your chosen material for a project is suddenly out of stock. Write a short paragraph explaining how you will choose a substitute material.
   Show Answer

   Look for mention of reviewing the project’s purpose, listing important features (strength, color, cost), checking available alternatives, and testing a small sample.
6. Draw a “before and after” sketch of a messy craft storage box and your improved, organized version.
   Show Answer

   Teacher checks for grouping by type, closed containers for small items, and some labeling.
7. List three safety questions to ask before using a new adhesive or paint on a handicraft product.
   Show Answer

   Examples: “Is it safe for skin or children?” “Do I need ventilation or a mask?” “On which materials does it work best?” “Is it flammable?”
8. Write a short dialogue between two learners solving a problem about over-budget materials.
   Show Answer

   Look for discussion about comparing prices, changing some materials to cheaper but acceptable options, and keeping quality reasonable.
9. Create a small table with two columns: “Problem” and “Solution.” Add at least three material-related problems and your proposed solutions.
   Show Answer

   Examples: paper too thin → switch to thicker cardstock; yarn rough → choose softer yarn; beads falling off → use stronger thread or better knots.
10. Finish this statement: “When I face a materials problem, I will respond by…”
    Show Answer

    Encourage answers such as: staying calm, describing the problem, asking for help, testing solutions, and learning from the experience.

✅ Check Yourself

Answer the following items, then reveal the answers to check your understanding.

1. (Multiple Choice) Which situation shows a problem caused by weak material?
   a. A bag looks too plain.
   b. A bracelet string breaks when pulled lightly.
   c. A project uses too many colors.
   d. A drawer is full of organized beads.
   Show Answer

   Correct answer: b. A bracelet string breaks when pulled lightly.
2. (Multiple Choice) A store has no more of the exact fabric you planned to use. This is an example of:
   a. Defective material
   b. Stock-out
   c. Oversupply
   d. Recycling
   Show Answer

   Correct answer: b. Stock-out.
3. (True/False) The only thing that matters when choosing materials is how they look.
   Show Answer

   False. Strength, safety, cost, and comfort also matter.
4. (True/False) Poor storage can damage good materials and increase total project cost.
   Show Answer

   True. Damaged materials often need to be replaced, which costs money.
5. (Short Answer) What is a substitute material?
   Show Answer

   A different material chosen to replace the original one when the first choice is unavailable, too costly, or unsuitable.
6. (Multiple Choice) Which step should come first in solving a materials problem?
   a. Buying new materials immediately
   b. Blaming a classmate
   c. Clearly describing the problem
   d. Throwing everything away
   Show Answer

   Correct answer: c. Clearly describing the problem.
7. (Short Answer) Give one example of a defective material.
   Show Answer

   Examples: stained fabric, cracked beads, warped cardboard, dried-out glue.
8. (Short Answer) Why is it helpful to keep a small contingency amount in your materials budget?
   Show Answer

   To cover small unexpected costs such as price changes, extra materials needed, or replacement for damaged items.
9. (Multiple Choice) Which of the following is the best example of safe storage?
   a. Leaving scissors open on the table
   b. Keeping fabric on a damp floor
   c. Storing beads in a closed, labeled container
   d. Placing glue near a heat source
   Show Answer

   Correct answer: c. Storing beads in a closed, labeled container.
10. (True/False) If a material is attractive but unsafe, it is still acceptable to use it in handicrafts.
    Show Answer

    False. Safety is more important than appearance.
11. (Short Answer) Write one question you should ask when checking if two materials are compatible.
    Show Answer

    Examples: “Will this adhesive damage this material?” “Will these two materials shrink or stretch differently?” “Will colors bleed or stain each other?”
12. (Short Answer) How can keeping simple notes about problems and solutions improve your future projects?
    Show Answer

    Notes remind you what worked or failed, help you improve designs, and prevent repeated mistakes.
13. (Multiple Choice) Which set of actions best shows responsible problem-solving?
    a. Ignoring broken products and continuing the same way
    b. Testing materials, adjusting designs, and updating the BOM
    c. Always choosing the cheapest materials
    d. Copying another group’s design without thinking
    Show Answer

    Correct answer: b. Testing materials, adjusting designs, and updating the BOM.
14. (Short Answer) What is one common problem that can happen if you never test a trial sample?
    Show Answer

    You may produce many products that are weak, uncomfortable, or unattractive before discovering the problem, wasting time and materials.
15. (Reflection Check) Which type of materials problem do you feel most ready to handle now, and which one do you still want to practice solving?
    Show Answer

    Answers will vary. Learners might feel ready to handle appearance or storage problems and want more practice with budgeting or technical strength issues.

🚀 Go Further (optional)

1. Problem-Solution Gallery – In groups, draw or bring samples showing one materials problem and your solution.
   Show Answer

   Teacher guidance: Ask groups to label each example with “Problem,” “Cause,” and “Solution.” Display them on a board so learners can learn from each other’s ideas.
2. Store Visit Reflection – Visit a real or virtual store and note three times when your “ideal” material is not available.
   Show Answer

   Teacher guidance: Let learners write what substitute materials they would choose and why. Discuss how real supply conditions affect project planning.
3. Budget Challenge – Give each group a pretend budget and ask them to design a small handicraft product and a detailed BOM.
   Show Answer

   Teacher guidance: Encourage them to check if their total cost fits the budget and to propose adjustments if not.
4. Storage Makeover – Choose one area of classroom craft storage to reorganize based on today’s lesson.
   Show Answer

   Teacher guidance: Allow learners to sort, label containers, and propose simple rules (for example, “return tools after use”). Take “before” and “after” photos if possible.
5. Case Study Writing – Write a short case study about a fictional student who faced a serious materials problem and solved it successfully.
   Show Answer

   Teacher guidance: Ask for clear explanation of the problem, cause, solutions considered, and final lesson learned. Use a few of the best cases for class discussion.

🔗 My Reflection

Notebook prompt:

Think of one handicraft project you have done or would like to do. Describe at least one materials problem that might occur and write how you would apply the five-step problem-solving process to handle it. Include what you will do differently next time to prevent the same issue.

Show Answer

Teacher note: Look for a clear problem description, identification of cause, at least two possible solutions, a chosen best solution, and a prevention plan. Encourage students to see problems as opportunities to improve their planning skills.

Lesson Tools

• 🎯 Learning Goals
• 🧩 Key Ideas & Terms
• 🔄 Quick Recall / Prior Knowledge
• 📖 Explore the Lesson
• 💡 Example in Action
• 📝 Try It Out
• ✅ Check Yourself
• 🚀 Go Further
• 🔗 My Reflection