We work with a bunch of small businesses that offer products that require packaging design in some way. We understand if this is your first time doing package design. There are a lot of questions regarding the procedure, as there are with anything in company CBB for the first time.
That is why we created this helpful guide. We walk you through the full package design process, from the original brainstorm to the finished result, so you know exactly what to expect when working with a packaging designer.
Prior to Creating Your Packaging
Good packaging is more than just a matter of aesthetics. Many details go overlooked that were incredible accomplishments of product engineering at the time. Even now, digital technologies and the rise of biomass materials are having an impact on how we produce and store food. Many packaging designs priorities safety first, followed by attractive design. This is especially true when it comes to food packaging. These are some ideas to consider before starting the design process.
In some circumstances, deciding on the right sort of packing is a simple task (e.g. bottle over box). Thinking outside the box, on the other hand, can occasionally help you come up with distinctive designs and make you stand out from the crowd. Take, for example, this juicer container, which is designed like a box rather than a bottle.
Due to the obvious screw-on cap at the top, it still fulfils its duty flawlessly, but also adds a modern touch to the well-known design. Naturally, there are a variety of packaging materials available, including natural materials such as wicker and glass. Simple alternatives such as netting, film-covered trays, or plastic caps are also available.
There are different types of packaging materials available
Paperboard
Lightweight, sturdy cardboard that is often used for packaging milk, cosmetics, frozen food, and other items. For a more natural and environmentally friendly packaging solution, it can be utilized in the Kraft variety (or CUK – coated unbleached Kraft).
Rigid Boxes
Rigid boxes are used to package luxury items like cellphones and smartwatches; they are composed of cardboard that is four times thicker than normal paper pulp, making them far more sturdy but also more costly.
Plastic bag
They are usually used to wrap food or garments and are composed of thin plastic film.
What makes a product packaging design fruitful?
Simplicity
If you’re enthusiastic about your product, you could be tempted to include too much information on the packaging: your company’s history, details about the manufacturing process, or a lengthy copy written by your marketing department. As a result, individuals may avoid a cluttered, perplexing package concept. Effective package design, as well as appropriate information architecture, require simplicity.
Originality
Keep in mind that uniqueness comes in a variety of forms. A bold approach could mean detailed designs with lovely details and drawings, but it could also mean plain Kraft paper (if the industry is overcrowded with colorful designs).
While researching market competitors is an important part of the design process, be sure that your chosen package designer is bringing something new and different to the table.
Impact on the shelf
Consumer goods with a broader use face the most competition: stroll into any supermarket and you’ll find that each product is available in multiple brands.
Your product packaging must not only be unique, but it must also stand out, whether on a supermarket shelf or in an online store. A well-designed box will help you stand out. This can be a bright box or a snappy slogan that is clearly displayed on your package.
Importance
If your design doesn’t relate to what’s behind that label or box, it won’t attract devoted customers in the long run, no matter how beautiful, innovative, or striking it is. Ironically, with e-commerce, this is much more critical. People may be hesitant to buy anything online that appears like a bar of soap but is actually chocolate (in a supermarket, at least they will have found it in the food aisle).
Of course, it is the responsibility of the packaging designer to make your product look as good as possible. However, you must intervene if they try to sell a design concept that is completely different from reality.