Packaging & Merchandising Design - Custom Box for Non-Boxed Items

Name: Caitlin Alina Anthony - ID Nr. 0383177

Module: Packaging & Merchandising Design

Custom Box for Non-Boxed Items

Kate Spade Pencil Pouch

Justification

The Kate Spade pencil pouch is a stylish and high-end accessory that often comes without any protective or branded box. Despite its premium price point, the absence of custom packaging diminishes its perceived value, especially for gifting purposes.

Why custom box packaging helps:

• Enhances Perceived Luxury: A custom-designed box reinforces the brand's upscale image and turns a simple pouch into a premium gift experience.
• Protection: Prevents scratching or deformation during handling or transit.
• Retail Display: Adds shelf appeal and makes it easier to stack, store, or display in retail or online packaging shots.
• Gifting: Adds elegance, making it suitable for occasions (birthdays, graduation, etc.) where presentation matters.

Box Design

H: 230mm

W: 95mm

L: 95mm

Original Design: (with flaps)

This design was made due to not having any clear material (which was the original idea), so I added window panels to the side so you can see the pencil pouch on the inside.

Design 1

When I went to the laser printer, I printed out a final prototype after many failed attempts.

Prototype 1

After getting some feedback, Mr Shamsul told me to go for my original idea of having a clear box. We looked at PVC, acrylic, etc. So I did some research on where to find some in Subang Jaya, bought 2 sheets and started cutting it with the laser. I was pleased with the outcome, but that meant I had to change the box design due to me only finding 2mm acrylic.

Design 2

Laser Cut Out

Product after Glued Together

Opening Mechanism

In order for it to work properly I had to think of an opening mechanism, so I went to the wood shop and had him drill a hole through the top so I could pass some ribbon through it. Which brings it back to on brand 'cuteness' of Kate Spade.

Process of Opening

Final Outcome

Final Outcome

Bath & Body Work Hand Cream

Justification

Hand creams are often purchased as personal indulgences or small gifts, but many come in plain tubes with no secondary packaging, especially in minimalist or natural brands.

Why Custom Box Packaging Helps:

• Hygiene & Sealing: Offers tamper-evident protection and a cleaner, safer presentation.
• Functionality: Prevents leakage in transit or retail bins.
• Informational Display: Allows more space for branding, ingredients, instructions, and sustainability claims.
• Gift-ability: Turns a simple tube into a thoughtful, elegant mini gift (especially when paired with other skincare items).

Box Design

H: 120mm

W: 39.4mm

L: 39.4mm

The thought of this box was to create a unique shapes and design for the simple hand cream.

Final Design

Final Box

Opening Mechanism

Reflection

Coming into this project with no prior design experience made it really challenging at first. I didn't know how to design a box, work in dielines, or use the laser cutting machine, so a lot of things felt overwhelming. There was definitely frustrating moments, especially when the laser measurements kept going wrong, but over time I started to enjoy the process and learned a lot through trial and error,

One thing I really appreciated was how Mr. Shamsul gave us the opportunity to improve and was always kind and supportive throughout the process. That made a difference, especially when things felt difficult or discouraging.

Even though it wasn't easy, I'm genuinely proud of the final outcome. This project showed me how much you can learn when you're pushed outside your comfort zone.

Failed Attempts