Pattern Packs
| Branding | Design Research | Graphic Design | Packaging Design
Overview
During my Creativity & Concept Development work experience, I focused on the importance of user-centered design. When narrowing down my personal project, I reflected on how my siblings and I would improvise when toy furniture broke or went missing, crafting replacements to keep our dolls’ storylines going. This resourcefulness inspired my project: creating imaginative, DIY play solutions that are accessible and designed with creativity in mind.
Research
When first conceptualizing my project, an important step in my research was to look into my target demographic (caretakers and children age 3-9) . My research included looking into trends in children's interior design, color preferences, and how imaginative play develops fine motor development.
I chose the toy, Calico Critters, as the backbone of my project as not only were they one of my favorite toys growing up, but they also represent the kind of imaginative and open-ended play that encourages storytelling, empathy, and creativity in children.
Concept development
My initial concept featured perforated furniture built into the box, but I later shifted to stencils and trading-card-style pattern packs, as they encourage more creativity and help younger children develop fine motor skills through tracing and cutting.
My initial concept featured perforated furniture built into the box, but I later shifted to stencils and trading-card-style pattern packs, as they encourage more creativity and help younger children develop fine motor skills through tracing and cutting.