Packaging and Merchandising Design - Exercise 2

SHIMANLIN,(0375858)

BACHELOR OF DESIGN(HONOURS)IN CREATIVE MEDIA || TAYLOR'S UNIVERSITY

EXERRCISE 2


TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Instructions

2. Exercise

3. Feedback

4. Reflection


INSTRUCTIONS


EXERCISE

Non-box Item Preparation & Sketching

Mr Shamsul instructed us to gather 2 non-box items for the first project of the module. Here are the items that I prepared:

Item 1: Doll


I chose to design a paper box for the doll because it protects it from dust and damage, while also making it more suitable for gift giving.


Item 2: Hair straightener


I chose to design a cardboard box for my hair straighteners because the original packaging I received was made of plastic and broke with just a slight bump. Cardboard packaging is not only sturdier and more durable, but also better protects the product and enhances the overall quality.

Research/Reference Images

(1)References and Inspiration for Doll Packaging Design :

During my research, I looked at some doll packaging designs presented in gift boxes. This type of packaging not only protects the product but also enhances the gift-giving experience.

I planned to use a transparent window design, allowing consumers to see a portion of the doll before opening the box, thereby enhancing its appeal.


(2)References and inspiration for Hair straightener packaging design:

I chose a triangular packaging box because the straight clip will open slightly when there is no resistance, which is similar to the shape of a triangle and can also save storage space.


Sketches

(1) Doll Sketch


(2)Hair straightener Sketch



Initial creation

Before finalizing the design, I cut out a rough shape from cardstock to test how the overall form and structure would work. This helped me visualize the proportions, balance, and practicality of the design in a more tangible way.

(1)Doll prototype



(2)Hair straightener prototype





Creating Die-line

After confirming that the initial hand-made prototype was basically feasible, I decided to transition the process to a digital phase. This allowed me to more efficiently experiment with different shapes, materials, and combinations before finalizing the design.

(1) Doll

(2)Hair straightener 



PDF

(1) Doll


(2)Hair straightener


Final Creation

Once the design was finalized, I brought the file to the Maker space, where I used a laser cutter to create the final trimmed cut-out pieces. This step allowed me to transform the digital design into a precise physical prototype.

(1) Doll




(2)Hair straightener





FEEDBACK

Week 3
Mr. Shamsul delivered a lecture explaining the essential elements that should be included in packaging design, such as branding, typography, visual hierarchy, and structural balance. He then briefed us on our second exercise, which required choosing a non-boxed product that measures around 15 cm and creating a box packaging concept for it.

Week 4
This week in class, we discussed Project Two, which will be completed in groups. Mr. Shamsul also provided feedback on our sketches and models.

Week 5
Mr. Shamsul conducted an online tutorial demonstrating how to accurately create die-cut lines using Adobe Illustrator.


REFLECTIONS

Experience:

This project provided me with practical experience in transforming conceptual sketches into fully functional packaging prototypes. It prompted me to carefully consider spatial layout and structure. Converting die-cut lines in Illustrator into a 3D model was a complex but rewarding process, especially when fine-tuning dimensions for a perfect fit. From adjusting label length to optimizing fold lines, there were numerous trials and failures, but this process deepened my understanding of design precision.

Observations:

Throughout the development process, I observed that technical precision and creative design must complement each other. Even minor changes in size or material thickness can drastically alter the way the packaging closes or its tactile stability. I learned that details such as crease depth, label placement, and cardboard flexibility directly impact ease of assembly and product protection. Choosing the right material is another crucial factor—thinner cardboard is lightweight but less durable, while thicker cardboard requires more precise cutting to avoid excessive bulk. These findings reinforced my understanding that structural planning is just as important as visual presentation in creating professional packaging.

Findings:

Through this experience, I discovered that packaging design requires a delicate balance between creativity, practicality, and engineering. Understanding die-cutting lines helped me understand how two-dimensional designs are transformed into three-dimensional reality, where every fold and connection plays a functional role. Repeated prototyping helps refine the form and function of a product, ensuring the final product meets both aesthetic and practical requirements. I also realized that prototyping and material testing are crucial for preventing production problems. In future projects, I plan to apply these experiences, placing greater emphasis on structural precision, ergonomic design, and user experience to create packaging that is aesthetically pleasing, sustainable, and easy to use.

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