Reuse-it

Making Sticky Notes from Scrap Paper · James Dyson Award 2019 National Winner (South Korea)

RoleUX Design · Product Design

Reuse-it is a portable device that turns scrap paper into sticky notes. It offers a simple way to reuse paper that would otherwise be thrown away.

Reuse-it product features: one-press operation, different note shapes, and refillable glue cartridges

The idea came from looking at how we use and discard paper. Many documents are printed on only one side, leaving the other side blank. Sticky notes need just one writable side, with adhesive on the back. That led us to use the blank side of scrap paper for new sticky notes.

Reuse-it prototype with the cover removed, showing its internal structure and glue cartridge

Reuse-it is small enough to sit on a desk or be carried around. Refillable glue cartridges help reduce extra waste. We wanted reusing scrap paper to feel as easy and familiar as using a sticky note.

How to use Reuse-it: open the cover, insert scrap paper, press to cut, and take out a sticky note

To make a sticky note, users insert a sheet of scrap paper and press the top button. A single press cuts the paper into a square and applies adhesive to the back. Users then open the device and take out the sticky note.

Reuse-it cutting and gluing mechanism alongside technical drawings of the internal structure

We won the James Dyson Award (South Korea) in 2019 for our work on Reuse-it. The award recognizes innovative design solutions that address real-world problems.

The Reuse-it team holding the prototype at the James Dyson Award event

The Reuse-it team discussing the prototype and its components