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Apr. 29, 2024
We all know that packaging is one of the driving forces of customers’ decision to buy or not to buy a specific item. But how impactful is it really? 72% of Americans agree that the product’s packaging design influences their buying choices (Source: Ipsos). That’s an impressive chunk of the market!
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To make the best packaging design you can (and attract that 72%), I would suggest getting to know the packaging design aspects and the end-to-end process first. It starts from the preparation stage, goes through package design, artwork approval, prepress, and ends with final package printing. These five main stages might not look like much, but each of them covers a lot of ground, so let’s get to unraveling.
Packaging design seems like a simple concept, but it certainly entangles more than just a “pretty box.” What is a product packaging design exactly? It is “the connection of form, structure, materials, color, imagery, typography, and regulatory information with ancillary design elements to make a product suitable for marketing” (Source: O’Reilly). In simple words, packaging design is a combination of materials and graphic elements that meet both marketing and product protection objectives.
We think that both objectives are crucial, and keeping them in mind would definitely enhance your packaging design skills. As no one would like to receive the damaged product inside the beautiful packaging, the protection objective comes first. However, without a thoughtful and captivating outer design, very few people would pick your product off the shelf, which defeats the purpose of creating the product in the first place (not all the time, but most of the time).
With that in mind, let’s talk about various kinds of packaging, namely the primary, secondary, and tertiary ones:
Different kinds of packaging.As with every thought-through project, packaging design should start with the preparation stage. This is a starting point where you get to know the project, discuss everything with the client and work on the concept. Planning the course of action influences how the whole project will evolve; thus, I wouldn’t advise skipping this stage.
The best is to break it into several smaller and more manageable steps:
What do I mean by necessary info and elements? Mainly a text copy and technical requirements (size, dimensions, manufacturing details, etc.). As the package designer, you should be presented with this information by the client beforehand, as it influences the design process. Still, it happens often that designers have to ask for it.
I encourage you to talk through everything possible and plan the project in detail. It would be wise to also include all of the information gathered in the previous step as well as such essential aspects like budget, stakeholders, project goals, and milestones. We have a complete guide on how to write the perfect brief with examples and free templates.
It’s essential to keep everything in the same style as the existing brand book and consider the values you will portray through the packaging design. If the brand has a solid online presence, researching the way they visually present information on other media could benefit you.
With previous steps done, the vague, or quite opposingly, the vivid concept might already be on your mind. I would also add it’s better to decide on the suitable packaging materials and layers for the product at this stage before the actual packaging design process. This last step would ease your way into the design process as it could eliminate the possible brain fog of not knowing where to start.
Now it’s time to do what you are best at – design! Of course, putting the copy, requirements, and all other technical elements together in an efficient way is not an easy task. However, I’m sure that a bit of dedication, creative thinking, and hard work will bring you the best result.
The unique aspect of packaging design is a dieline. What is a dieline? It’s a 2D representation of the 3D packaging structure that is used as a blueprint or a template for applying artwork and manufacturing. The dieline itself is not usually printed on the final product, it just shows the correct layout and guides for the manufacturing. For example, where to cut lines, place folds, or glue together your packaging.
Dielines example. Can you see the odd one?Some components of the dielines might include:
A lot of printing offices can actually provide you with already prepared dielines for various packaging types. However, because it’s not 100% the case, here are some free resources that include the various kinds of dielines, ready to be used in your next packaging design project:
Some other things to keep in mind when creating packaging design:
It goes without saying that the artwork approval process is one of the most tedious and stressful stages. Designers are worried that their design will be rejected, and clients are nervous about not noticing typos or errors and sending the faulty design to print. Therefore, to make all parties happy, I would advise you to take this stage as seriously as you can, not only in terms of worrying but also in terms of correct workflow.
If you are the lucky one that doesn’t suffer from extreme self-doubt, just go ahead and send the finished design for approval. However, for all of the other folks, I’ve got some self-assessment questions that might help you calm your nerves before sending the artwork for client review.
These self-evaluating questions could also bring a new perspective into your design decision-making process. Who knows, maybe some questions could remind you of the aspect that has slipped through, and now you would like to make those minor tweaks just before sending your artwork for review.
Now, when you’re ready to send the finished packaging design to your client, consider the ways and channels you want to receive feedback. The most popular way to go around design proofing is using messengers or emails, and, if you ask me, these are not the most efficient ways to collect comments and track the change requests. The better option would be to use specialized software created mainly to assist with accurate design approval.
One of the software options is Approval Studio, the online proofing tool that helps to speed up the lengthy and tedious artwork approval process. It provides you with on-screen annotations, compare modes, barcode scanner, and other handy features.
Let’s take a look at how Approval Studio can be useful with the packaging approval with this simple example. You are a fast-growing packaging company and you have multiple label approvers. When it comes to proofing the design, one person is communicating via email, another only via the Slack channel and some are even calling you on the phone. What a mess! With the help of Approval Studio, the artwork approval happens in one specially dedicated place with convenient on-screen annotations and a live-chat feature where reviewers can vividly mark and discuss the packaging design in real-time.
With successfully approved artwork, you are now ready for the next stage of the packaging design process – prepress. During the prepress, the 2D model of your design is printed on an actual packaging, creating the prototype, the final 3D model, and you can see if any further design changes should be made. This stage is a hybrid of the previous and next stages as it encompasses both packaging printing and artwork approval but on a smaller scale. Having said that, this in no way means that this stage is irrelevant. Let me model the reason why.
Imagine having created the packaging design that you are proud of. Your client absolutely loves it, the goals and deadlines are met, and you are ready to send it off to the printing office. You’ve checked everything several times: the file formats are correct, colors look amazing on the screen, the barcode is scanning properly. Basically, everything is in place. To save some time, you and the client decide to skip the prepress stage and send the design for mass production, and, oh no, the bleed is just two mm short, creating the white line on the side of your perfectly designed box. And now, you have hundreds of faulty boxes.
This isn’t an ideal development of such a great beginning, is it? But that’s why the prepress stage is so valuable, as it is the way for you to make sure that everything is precisely how you want it before the design goes to mass package production.
So, what are the things to keep in mind during prepress?
Bear in mind, the position of a prepress technician exists in all of the printing offices. The prepress technician is a worker that checks print materials to ensure formatting, text, and color are correct before printing begins. They can guide you through the prepress process and assist you with any of the questions or problems along the way.
Even though this isn’t technically part of the design process as everything is now handled by the printing office, we decided to include this stage to conclude the packaging process from start to finish nicely.
Image carrier example for package printing.Once the printing office receives your final design (reviewed and proofed during the prepress), the process of creating an image carrier will begin. The image carrier is a plate, cylinder, or other surface used to transfer ink in the form of the image to the paper (or other materials). Usually, before the actual manufacturing of image carriers, the STEP file is created. The STEP file is a file format of highly precise 3D models that ensures that the dimensions are exactly correct for the printing press.
Examples of a STEP file in package printing.After everything is set, some final printing tests (like checking if the software reads the file properly, if the printer is set up correctly and doesn’t have a malfunction, etc.) are done to get all of the aspects exactly right on the day of printing. Once several samples are printed and approved, mass package printing begins.
Congratulations, you’ve got to the other side of the packaging design workflow!
This 5-stage packaging design process is by no means the most exhaustive guide in the packaging industry, but hopefully, it showed you what to expect from start to finish. Preparation, package design, artwork approval, prepress, and package printing are just a few of the project’s milestones. Given its complexity, take time to thoroughly go through each of the stages and modify along the way according to your needs and experience.
And as always, if you need an automated solution to your artwork approval process, give Approval Studio a try and let us know what you think!
INTRODUCTION
In the bustling world of paper packaging, design is more than just an artistic endeavor; it’s a fusion of aesthetics, function, and manufacturability. For manufacturers, the art of paper packaging design takes on a different hue. Unlike designers who often approach it from a purely creative perspective, manufacturers must weave in the realities of production lines, material constraints, and cost efficiencies.
While the goal remains to craft visually appealing packages that resonate with consumers, manufacturers face a myriad of challenges in bringing these designs to life. From ensuring color consistency across thousands of units to optimizing the layout for minimal waste, the task is intricate. But with these challenges come unique opportunities. The chance to innovate, to push the boundaries of what’s possible in design while balancing the practicalities of large-scale production. In this exploration, we’ll delve deep into the world of paper packaging design from the lens of those who breathe life into these designs – the manufacturers.
THE MANUFACTURER'S TAKE ON PAPER PACKAGING DESIGN
When stepping into the realm of paper packaging design from a manufacturer‘s standpoint, one quickly recognizes that it’s not just about aesthetics. While the external allure of packaging is crucial for attracting consumers, a manufacturer is tasked with ensuring that this beauty is more than skin-deep. It’s about structure, efficiency, and the delicate dance between creativity and feasibility.
INTEGRATION OF DESIGN INTO THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS
At the heart of paper packaging manufacturing lies a fundamental truth: design and production are deeply intertwined. Every curve, fold, and graphic on the design blueprint must be translated to real-world machinery and processes. This requires designs to be not just imaginative but also rooted in the practicalities of production. For manufacturers, the challenge is to ensure that the integrity of the design is maintained, all while keeping the production process smooth and efficient.
THE PIVOTAL ROLE OF LAYOUT DESIGN
Layout design is the unsung hero in the world of paper packaging. It determines how components are arranged on a sheet before cutting, ensuring that the final product fits together seamlessly. This design stage is critical because it directly impacts material usage, waste generation, and production speed. A well-planned layout can mean the difference between a project that’s profitable and one that drains resources.
Consider this: A poorly planned layout might lead to excessive paper waste, higher costs, and longer production times. In contrast, an optimized layout can efficiently utilize materials, reduce waste, and speed up production, leading to significant cost savings.
DATA POINT:
A study in the packaging industry found that optimizing layout design can lead to a reduction of up to 15% in material waste. This not only translates to direct cost savings but also emphasizes a manufacturer’s commitment to sustainability. With the growing demand for eco-friendly practices, such efficiency gains become doubly beneficial, offering both environmental and economic advantages.
In essence, while the end consumer might admire a package for its vibrant colors or innovative shape, for manufacturers, the beauty often lies in the efficiency and precision of its design and production. Ensuring that a package is functional, efficient, and cost-effective is an art in itself – one that manufacturers master over time.
THE ART OF DESIGN FOR MANUFACTURERS
For manufacturers, diving into the realm of design is not solely about crafting visually appealing packages. It’s about achieving a perfect blend of aesthetics and function while ensuring consistency, feasibility, and brand integrity throughout large-scale production. Let’s delve into three pivotal design facets that manufacturers often grapple with.
1. COLOR CONSISTENCY:
In the world of printing and manufacturing, achieving color consistency is both an art and a science. As batches roll out, ensuring that the first box’s hue matches the thousandth is paramount.
Challenges: Different paper materials can absorb inks differently, leading to slight color variations. Additionally, external factors like humidity and temperature can influence how ink sets on paper.
Solutions: Utilizing color management systems and advanced printing technologies, manufacturers can maintain consistent color reproduction. Regular calibration of printing machinery and using standardized inks can further ensure that the hues remain undeviated.
2. TYPOGRAPHY:
The written word on a package is more than just information; it’s a reflection of the brand’s voice. From bold titles to minute disclaimers, every letter matters.
Challenges: Different package sizes mean varying space for text. Ensuring that the typography remains legible on a small box while not appearing oversized on a larger one can be challenging.
Solutions: By employing scalable vector fonts and using design software with dynamic resizing capabilities, manufacturers can ensure brand and typography consistency across various package dimensions.
3. GRAPHICS AND ILLUSTRATIONS:
Images, patterns, and illustrations give life to a package. But different paper materials come with their unique textures and finishes, which can impact how a design appears.
Challenges: Glossy papers can reflect light, potentially affecting the visibility of certain graphics. Conversely, matte papers might not capture the vibrancy of specific colors.
Solutions: Understanding the properties of the chosen paper material is crucial. Manufacturers can adjust color saturation, contrast, and design details to ensure that the graphics remain prominent and true to the intended design, irrespective of the paper finish.
In essence, the art of design for manufacturers lies in mastering these technicalities. It’s about ensuring that every package, irrespective of its size, material, or batch, resonates with the brand’s voice and vision while remaining consistently captivating.
THE SCIENCE BEHIND MANUFACTURER-CENTRIC DESIGN
Delving into the design world from a manufacturer’s viewpoint goes beyond mere aesthetics. It encompasses an intricate balance of art, consumer demands, and the nitty-gritty of production feasibility. Here’s an exploration of the science and strategies behind designs tailored for manufacturers.
1. MATERIAL CONSTRAINTS:
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The choice of paper isn’t just a matter of texture and finish; it fundamentally influences design capabilities.
Challenges: Some papers can’t hold intricate details without bleeding, while others may not be suitable for certain types of ink or print methods.
Solutions: Manufacturers need to work closely with designers to understand the potential and limitations of chosen materials, ensuring that the design visions are both beautiful and feasible.
2. SUSTAINABILITY:
With the world leaning towards eco-friendly choices, designing with sustainability in mind has never been more crucial.
Challenges: Creating a design that’s both visually appealing and environmentally friendly can be a daunting task. This often involves striking a balance between aesthetics and minimalism.
Solutions: Using vegetable-based inks, reducing laminate layers, and designing for easy recyclability are steps manufacturers can take.
Data Point: A recent survey highlighted that 73% of consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable packaging. Brands that prioritize eco-friendliness in their design and materials often witness a positive impact on sales.
3. LAYOUT DESIGN:
The essence of manufacturer-centric design is efficient layout planning, ensuring optimal material utilization.
Challenges: Achieving a design that fits seamlessly into production lines while ensuring minimal wastage requires in-depth knowledge of machinery and processes.
Solutions: Employing CAD and digital mock-up tools, manufacturers can simulate the production process, tweaking designs for maximum efficiency.
CASE STUDY: MAXIMIZING EFFICIENCY
Z Company, a renowned packaging manufacturer, once faced challenges with excessive paper wastage due to a non-optimized design layout. Collaborating with their design team, they adopted a modular design approach. This strategy involved creating designs that could be adjusted dynamically to fit varying box sizes without material wastage. The result? A whopping 25% reduction in paper wastage and significant cost savings.
In the vast universe of design, manufacturers are the unsung strategists. They ensure that every creative vision is rooted in practicality, sustainability, and efficiency. Through meticulous planning and leveraging data, manufacturers can elevate the science of design to an art form.
TRENDS AND INNOVATIONS IN PAPER PACKAGING DESIGN FOR MANUFACTURERS
In today’s fast-paced world, staying updated with the latest trends and innovations isn’t just beneficial; it’s vital. For paper packaging manufacturers, this means continuously evolving their design strategies to meet the needs of both consumers and the environment. Here are some of the forefront trends and innovations tailored for manufacturers:
1. EFFICIENT LAYOUTS:
Driving the Green Revolution through Design
The Trend: There’s a robust push towards making the most out of every sheet of paper, thanks to the global emphasis on sustainability.
Innovation: Advanced software tools are now enabling designers to calculate the most efficient layout for packaging, aiming to reduce scrap paper and optimize the manufacturing process. For instance, nesting techniques can be used to fit multiple designs onto a single sheet, ensuring minimal waste.
2. DIGITAL PROTOTYPING:
Visualizing Before Producing
The Trend: Gone are the days of creating physical prototypes for every design iteration. Digital transformations are reshaping the way manufacturers approach the prototyping stage.
Innovation: With technologies like 3D printing and digital simulation, manufacturers can now create virtual prototypes of their packaging designs. This not only speeds up the design process but also allows for real-time tweaks and adjustments without incurring extra costs. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) further allow stakeholders to ‘experience’ the packaging before it hits the production line.
3. INTERACTIVE ELEMENTS:
Engaging the Tech-savvy Consumer
The Trend: The modern consumer isn’t just looking for packaging; they’re seeking an experience. Interactive elements on packaging are bridging the gap between the physical product and the digital world.
Innovation: QR codes, NFC tags, and AR markers are becoming staples in packaging design. When scanned with a smartphone, they can provide additional product information, promotional offers, or even augmented reality experiences. The challenge for manufacturers is to incorporate these elements without disrupting the manufacturing workflow. Advancements in printing technology now allow for the seamless integration of these interactive markers without compromising design aesthetics or manufacturing speed.
In conclusion, the realm of paper packaging design is in the throes of a revolution. Manufacturers are at the forefront, merging creativity with technology, ensuring that every box or package isn’t just a container but an experience in itself.
CHALLENGES FROM A MANUFACTURER'S LENS
The intersection of creativity and functionality is where manufacturers often find themselves. The paper packaging industry, though ripe with opportunities, presents a unique set of challenges that manufacturers must navigate. Let’s delve into some of these challenges that manufacturers often grapple with:
1. BALANCING DESIGN ASPIRATIONS WITH MANUFACTURING CONSTRAINTS:
The Tightrope Walk
2. KEEPING UP WITH RAPIDLY CHANGING DESIGN TRENDS WHILE ENSURING MANUFACTURABILITY:
Staying Relevant Yet Realistic
3. ENSURING DESIGN CONSISTENCY ACROSS LARGE BATCHES:
The Quest for Uniformity
In the dynamic world of paper packaging, manufacturers continually juggle between the allure of design and the pragmatism of production. While challenges are part and parcel of the journey, they also drive innovation, pushing the industry to evolve and adapt continually.
TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL PAPER PACKAGING DESIGN IN MANUFACTURING
Navigating the intricate dance between aesthetic appeal and manufacturability is essential in the world of paper packaging. While designers bring creativity to the table, manufacturers ensure that these designs can be realistically produced on a large scale without compromising quality. Here’s how manufacturers can ensure a harmonious fusion of design and production:
1. COLLABORATING CLOSELY WITH DESIGNERS:
Building Bridges of Understanding
2. REGULARLY UPDATING MACHINERY AND SOFTWARE FOR NEWER DESIGN POSSIBILITIES:
Staying Ahead of the Curve
3. EMPHASIZING LAYOUT DESIGN IN THE INITIAL STAGES:
Foreseeing Potential Manufacturing Challenges
In conclusion, the road to a successful paper packaging design in manufacturing is paved with collaboration, innovation, and foresight. By integrating these tips, manufacturers can ensure a smooth journey from the drawing board to the production line, resulting in products that not only look good but are also efficiently produced.
CONCLUSION
Navigating the intricate world of paper packaging requires a delicate equilibrium, especially from a manufacturer’s standpoint. The fusion of aesthetic allure and pragmatic manufacturing feasibility isn’t just an art—it’s a science, demanding meticulous precision and vision.
Design, traditionally seen as the domain of pure creativity, has evolved substantially in the context of paper packaging manufacturing. It’s no longer just about creating visually pleasing packages but involves a deep understanding of material constraints, sustainability concerns, and production techniques. The modern design in this space is as much about efficiency, waste reduction, and manufacturability as it is about aesthetics.
Manufacturers are at the crossroads of this evolution, working in tandem with designers to bring visions to life while ensuring the end product is feasible and efficient to produce. It’s a challenging task but one that, when executed correctly, results in a harmonious blend of form and function, art and industry.
As the industry continues to evolve, manufacturers will play an ever-critical role in shaping the future of paper packaging design, ensuring that innovation and practicality go hand in hand. The dance between design aspirations and manufacturing realities will always exist, but with collaboration, innovation, and a forward-thinking approach, it’s a dance that can lead to truly remarkable outcomes.
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