Starting as a fundraiser for Stride Gallery and then becoming part of the project Syzygy on a Budget, this two-tiered capsule machine dispensed a variety of handmade, custom trinkets and snacks for the price of two toonies.

Each trinket is derived from and inspired by 点心 (dim2 sam1), treating each one as small morsels that touch the heart with delight but never fill it fully. Much like the dying tradition of dim sum trolleys pushed by aunties, the opening of the capsule brings similar joy and curiosity as an auntie lifts the lid from stacks of bamboo baskets.

Squishy Tofu Keychain

Care instructions:
Congrats! You now own a squishy tofu keychain!
This tofu is most definitely not edible!
DO NOT EAT!
Instead, you can enjoy the soft texture and squishiness with your fingers.
Squish responsibly! This tofu needs care and attention. Please read below:
This tofu easily attracts fine dust, particles, hair and lint. If this happens, use tape to remove it.
Note: removing all particles may not be possible and might remain forever. If you find your tofu sticky, coat the sticky spot with corn, tapioca or potato starch. Whichever flavour suits your taste! If you accidentally stain it with any material, it will stay stained forever. You may find your tofu discolour over time from exposure to the outside world and/or from handling. This is natural and part of the tofu’s life.

Please take care of it!

Tofu is made from urethane.

Edition of 25

Candied date & ginger

Congrats! You are blessed with a golden fortune! This capsule contains edible candied ginger and jujube! Jujubes, or red dates, are said to bring wealth, prosperity, and fertility. Also helps to alleviate stress and coughing.

Did you know? Jujubes candy, commonly found in convenience stores, used to contain jujube juice and likely became popular in theatres to help people suppress coughing. 

Note: You should avoid candied jujube if you take venlafaxine or certain anti-seizure medications.

Ginger is not only helpful for upset stomach or nausea but also if you’re lacking warmth in your body. Did you know? Ginger gets its heat from gingerol, a closely related compound to capsicum. When ginger is dried, gingerol becomes shogaol, making the root double in pungency and heat.

Note: candied ginger packs heat, so eat in moderation and to your personal level of tolerance. Don’t eat too much ginger or else you risk heartburn and diarrhea.   

Ingredients:
Dried red dates
Ginger root
Water
Cane sugar
Brown sugar
Salt

Century egg keychain

Congrats! You’re now an owner of a century-egg-that-will-last-a-century! Though not true-to-life century eggs, this imitation attempts to make this delicious snack look more appetizing.

Ammonia free!
DO NOT EAT
This egg is made from epoxy resin and ink.

CHOKING HAZARD – keychain is not suitable for children under three years

Edition of 100

*glowing* century egg keychain

Congrats! This a rare glowing ammonia-free century egg V2! Though not true-to-life century eggs, this imitation attempts to make this delicious snack look more appetizing.

Ammonia free!
DO NOT EAT
This egg is made from epoxy resin, ink and glow-in-the-dark pigment. Glow-in-the-dark pigment should last for 3+ years.

CHOKING HAZARD – keychain is not suitable for children under three years

Edition of 25

Universe 7 soul rock keychain

Congrats! You’re now an owner of a secret rare Universe 7 bite-sized soul rock from the Embalmed Reef! With permission from Universe 7, we produced this imitation of a soul rock. Truly a souvenir from another universe!

DO NOT EAT
This rock is made from epoxy resin, ink, and pigment (of imitation dead people).

CHOKING HAZARD – keychain is not suitable for children under three years

Edition of 50

Chili oil vial

Housed in these 3mm glass vials are moderately spicy (dangerous) liquids that can be used for emergency flavour booster or unconventional self-defense. But worry not! These are sealed tightly and shatter-proof. Carry it for extra good luck!

Ingredients:
Szechuan peppercorn
Cinnamon
Cloves
Chili flakes
Sesame oil
Canola oil

Edition of 50

Poking Mochi enamel pin

Created to commemorate the project 2 cents cart, this tri-coloured copper enamel pin showcases the joy one has in poking a freshly made rice cake of all varieties, a quiet and personal joy that’s irresistible more often than not.

DO NOT EAT

Edition of 125