My process…
It all begins with a problem I want to solve. From research to mind maps to sketches, at the end of the day I want to tell a story through my designs. Follow me through the process of one of my packaging projects, Akoya and get an insight of how I think.
Find a problem to solve.
I always try to find a problem within something I’m interested in. Personally, I love the beach and wanted to base a project off of it. While researching issues I could potentially fix, I learned that average swimwear shed microplastics when worn in the ocean, harming both marine life and humans.
Start researching.
Researching is a crucial part of my process. It brings me clarity and develops a stronger purpose for each project. After learning about the toxic effects of average swimwear, I researched on how this problem can be prevented. I quickly learned that fabrics made out of recycled materials and organic cotton can dramatically decrease the amount of microplastics being out into the ocean. Therefore, I decided Akoya would be a swim line made out of recycled materials.
3. Brainstorm ideas.
Once I’ve nailed down the clarity of my project, I start brainstorming ideas of how I can execute and communicate this project creatively. I begin mind mapping words and creating concepts through key words found in my mind maps.
For Akoya, I researched on the key word “pearl” and learned that pearls are an oyster’s defense mechanism. They protect them by keeping bacteria out of the oyster’s shell. This information led me to my final concept; Akoya swimwear is the ocean’s pearl, as it protects it by keeping harmful toxins out of it.
4. Sketch & ideate.
With the concept nailed down, now I begin sketching possible ways I can execute this idea. Sketching is what gets my ideas flowing. I always have to draw everything out before I approach my computer.
5. Start designing.
I take my sketches into Adobe Illustrator and begin designing. This is my favorite part of my process. For Akoya, I decided to go with a bright friendly color palette to stand out, since most sustainable packaging uses muted colors. However, I did use a brown textured surface for the base of the package so it still hints at sustainability.
To communicate my concept, I chose to go with a circular package to hint at the shape of the pearl. For the design on the surface package, I used a shell pattern to allude to an oyster so it conveys the idea that the package is the oyster shell and the bathing suit is the pearl.
6. Collaborate with peers.
Of course my designs are never perfect after the first go. I collaborate with my peers to get some feedback and discuss more ideas. I also show my work to people who aren’t designers. This helps me understand if my design and messaging is clear and communicative.
7. Refine design & reflect.
After rounds of critiques, I apply the feedback I received and put everything together. I go back and nit pick everything. I make sure every detail is perfect and holds purpose. I then sit back and reflect on all of the work I’ve done to get my project to this point. It’s a rewarding feeling to see how I told a story through design simply from identifying a problem in the beginning.
