Packaging and Merchandising Design | Final Project

on
1.12.2025 - 4.01.2026 (Week 11 - Week 15)
Caitlin Ong Lynn Dee / 0343801 / Bachelor of Design (Hons) in Creative Media
Packaging and Merchandising Design
Final Project

INSTRUCTION


Final Project: The Merch Drop (Group Project)

Continuing where we left off in Project 2, the final project is where we are tasked create an expansion on the brand by designing a cohesive "merch drop" collection and pitching the concept.

The 5 required items:

  • 1 POP (Point-of-Purchase) display
  • 4 merchandise items appealing to the target audience
Phase 1: Research & Concepts:

  • Analyze your Project 2 brand values and packaging aesthetics.
  • Develop 5 concepts that feel like a natural extension of the brand.
  • Goal: Ensure the items are things your target audience would actually buy.
Phase 2: Design & Mock-ups:
  • Design the graphics and structural elements for all 5 items.
  • Create high-quality digital mock-ups. These should be realistic renders that look like professional product photography.
  • Ensure strict visual consistency (color palette, typography) with your Project 2 packaging.

Phase 3: Strategy & Presentation:
  • Promotional Strategy: Outline specific channels (Social Media, Influencers, Events) and tactics you will use to launch the merchandise.
  • The Pitch: Prepare a slide deck presentation to "sell" your ideas. You will present your designs and strategy in Week 4


Phase 1

Referring to the mood board and design choices establish in the previous project is used as a guild on how we could expand and which merchandise is best suited for brand. The document show below is an expansion of the research.

Fig 1.1 Initial Research & Concepts Phase 1 (29/11/2025)

Phase 2

As for merchandise, we have decided to create a to do a tote bag, headphone case, t-shirt, and metal tumbler. Ashley our group leader assigns us on what type of merchandise should we work on.

Assigned Tasks:
  • Ashley: Tote-Bag
  • Angelique: POP up display
  • Anggia: Metal Tumbler
  • Valerius: T-Shirt
  • Caitlin: Headphone Zip Case

1. Headphone Case (Caitlin)

My task is to design the headphone case zipper pouch case, using a reference image provided by Maria Ashley. The purpose of the headphone case is to provide security for headphone while traveling and it also needs to include a pocket to store the charger. I have made initial sketches of the design of the headphone case.

Fig 1.2 Headphone Case Reference (29/11/2025)

Fig 1.3 Headphone Case Sketches (30/11/2025)

After the Week 11 consultation, option#2 is chosen due to its minimalistic design approach while staying consistent with the design direction while keeping the key elements visible too. The interior layout of the case is made to be compact as it is able to accommodate a non-foldable headphone while leaving sufficient space for the charger pouch to fit securely. Shown below is the digitalized progression.


Fig 1.4 Headphone Case Digitize Attempts (14/12/2025)

Later I further improve it, by tweaking the colors to fit the color scheme direction from the initial mood board.


Fig 1.5 Headphone Case Final Outcome (20/12/2025)

Due to the thick and matte finish of the case it causes the colors to be slightly altered. However, it's verry common to have a slight change of color in the final execution. Therefore, this wasn't a big issue as long as the design direction was aligned with other merchandise and the brand guidelines.

Fig 1.6 Headphone Case Final Outcome (20/12/2025)


2. Tote Bag (Maria Ashley)

Both stylish and functional, the tote bag serves as a daily necessity for today's youth. It can also be used to carry the headphone after purchase is made.  Shown below are the sketches done.

Fig 1.7 Tote Bag Sketches (30/11/2025)

The tote bag is made out of a thick canvas material to support a multicolored print while ensuring strength and long-term durability. Allowing the bag to carry heavier items without compromising its structure or quality. After all design options were approved, the digitization stage focused on selecting the version that best complemented the box packaging aesthetic. Show below are the 2 attempts made on the design of the tote bag.


Fig 1.8 Tote Bags Digitize Attempts (10/12/2025)

Following the digitization stage, we decide to choose the second attempt as it aligns better with the overall merchandise collection. The saturation of the bag is increased in order to create a stronger contrast making the bag more vibrant. And the Bass Tech logo located at the back, increased its size and was placed on the center to make the logo stand out more. Which can lead to an increase of public recognition.

Fig 1.9 Tote Bag Final Outcome (14/12/2025)


3. T-Shirt (Valerius)

Since our brand is a fashion oriented we decided to expand that concept with T-shirt. In addition, T-shirt are popular among the Gen Z audience.  Here we aimed the design for a daily casual outfit that fits and blends easily in the crowd while keeping the aesthetic and brand's visibility. Shown below is the initial sketch ideas

Fig 1.10 T-shirt Sketches, Week 10 (30/11/2025)

After Week 11 consultation, we have decided to go for a minimalist design on the graphic T-shirt while maintain the key elements to represent the brand identity. Shown below are the digital mockups. 

Fig 1.11 T-Shirts Digitize Attempts (8/12/2025)

As part of the design direction, color gradient is added within the shape of the soundwave element to keep the design minimalistic while still maintaining the brand's visual identity. Shown below is the final outcome.

Fig 1.12 T-Shirt Final Outcome (19/12/2025)

4. Metal Bottle Tumbler (Anggia)

As part of a gift set, a metal tumbler was chosen as a practical everyday item that can be carried around easily while maintaining the brand's visibility. The tumbler was designed to hold both hot and cold drinks. Based on the sketches shown below Anggia has experiment different type of color combination and the arrangement of the soundwave element. The logo while small but it is kept legible.

Fig 1.13 Metal Tumbler Sketches (30/11/2025)

After consultation, Anggia began the digitalization process, she made several attempts show below.


Fig 1.14 Metal Tumblers Digitize Attempts (6/12/2025)

After discussion, attempt #1 was chosen as it's more minimalist and align with the other merchandise made. Shown below.

Fig 1.15 Metal Tumbler Final Outcome (6/12/2025)

5. Pop Display (Angelique)

The pop-up display is meant to representation of the brand in a retail setting. The design of the display follows the established design direction, featuring the brand's gradient color palette against a dark contrasting background. The brand's logo and the sound waves are placed front and center. While the brand's tagline was placed on the side to reinforce the brand's messaging. Show below is the final outcome. 

Fig 1.16 Pop-Up Display Final Outcome (14/12/2025)

Additionally, this is how it looks with the displayed packaging visualize in an actual retail environment. Creating a striking comparison to the other products.

Fig 1.17 Pop-Up Display Final Outcome (19/12/2025)


Phase 3

As part of a promotional strategy, we created advertising design to promote Bass Tech. There are 3 platforms used to help to promote the product, this includes events stands, billboards, and a social media presence.

1. Events (Angelique)

Inspirated by tech focused pop-up markets, we developed a pop event display below using Sketch Up. Shown below is the initial layout and design concept for the event stand.

Fig 2.1 Pop-Up Events Sketches (30/11/2025)

The design of the pop-event is modeled after a pair of headphones. Complete with a TV on the back to show the product displays and logo, Meanwhile the table located on the middle showcased the real product display on the spot. Shown below is the Sketch Up progress.



Fig 2.2 Pop-Up Events in SketchUp (11/12/2025)

Once the base structure is finalized, colors were added to elevate the brand's visual identity accordingly following the color scheme, mood board and the visual element used. Shown below is the digitize progress.


Fig 2.3 Pop-Up Events in SketchUp Progress (12/12/2025)

From the first attempt of color application shown above, the colors appear to be unsaturated, and the element weren't visible due to the blurry effect. It was later fixed, by adjusting the colors to appear more saturated and making the elements more visible while still being blended with the overall look. Show below is the final outcome.


Fig 2.4 Pop-Up Events Final Outcome (14/12/2025)

Lastly, the pop-up booth is placed within a pop-up market setting to visualized how it would it appear in a real-life setting. The vibrant color palette successfully stands out among the crowd, creating an eye-catching and recognizable presence. Shown below is the final visualization.

Fig 2.5 Pop-Up Events Final Outcome (14/12/2025)

Rationale:

This event stand is mainly made for electronic conventions that is held indoors. It could be used for tech convention events, an example of a local event is that of Mid Valley's own exhibition place, Mid Valley Exhibition Centre (MVEC). The event stand contains a background with shelves in front of it that resembles and is connected by a headphone, Bass Tech's product. The event stand also contains a minimalistic table which display and highlights the product. It contains a bit of a stage which makes the event stand looks more luxurious


2. Billboard (Anggia)

To promote the product, the brand used billboard displays placed in high-traffic areas. With this method, it helps to spread awareness to our target audience as they frequently visited or passed thorough it during their daily routine. With the large-scale format it allows the vibrant colors and visuals, to effectively capturing attention for a large group of people. Show below is a static billboard final outcome.

Fig 3.1 Static Billboard Final Outcome #1 (16/12/2025)
Fig 3.2 Static Billboard Final Outcome #2 (16/12/2025)

To enhance engagement, an animated version of the billboard was created. The final outcome adds motion to capture attention while maintaining the brand's visual identity.

Fig 3.3 Animated Billboard Final Outcome (16/12/2025)

Since majority of static billboards are easily overlooked though the fast motion of a car, an animated billboard is an effective way to attract attention of the target audience, reinforces the brand visibility.



3. Social Media (Valerius & Maria Ashley)

A strong digital media presence is one of the most crucial aspects to promote the brand to the youth audience. Leveraging platform algorithms to increase visibility. We developed a series of social media post designed to showcase the brand and engage with the audience, encouraging them to learn more about the product. Show below are the sketches outlining the initial plan for these posts.

Fig 4.1 Social Media Sketch Plan (15/12/2025)

Fig 4.2 Promotional Strategy Reference (15/12/2025)

Photographs were taken by Valerius, then it is later edited to fit in with the brand's aesthetic. The following images showcase the progress of this process.

Fig 4.3 Photoshoot for Promotional Strategy (15/12/2025)

Fig 4.4 Photoshoot Outcome (15/12/2025)


With a friend's assistance, several shots were taken to align with the initial sketch plan. Since the pictures were taken around at night, raw images appeared slightly darker with a yellowish tone due to the lighting. Because of this, we carefully selected the preferred shots. And then we edited them further to reduce the warm tone to make it aligned with the brand's color scheme outlined in the mood board.


Fig 4.5 Post-processing in Adobe Lightroom CC (15/12/2025)

Finally, Valerius uses Adobe Lightroom to refine the images, adjust the curves, saturation, and other setting to achieve the desired aesthetic. Once all the images are edited, they are compiled to review the overall layout and composition. The final social media posts are presented here in a grid format. 


Fig 4.6 Social Media Posts, Week 13 (20/12/2025)

Rationale:
Targeting the youth audience, creating these posts and posting them on social media platforms helps boost engagement by introducing the product and how it can be applied in their daily routines. Therefore, the posts appear by using a teenage model that reflects the targeted audience, where he is dressed in casual street style while using the headphone. Relating to teenagers’ interest, we apply the purpose of the headphone by suggesting it accompanies their daily runs or accessorizing their outfit. Being relatable helps direct the ads to the targeted audience through interest and algorithm.

Base Tech Instagram Account:
https://www.instagram.com/thebass.tech

Fig 4.7 Bass Tech Social Media (20/12/2025)

After setting up an Instagram account for the brand, we created a mockup to showcase how they would appear on both mobile and desktop platforms. Show below are the final outcomes of the mockup.

Fig 4.8 Social Media Mobile View (20/12/2025)

Fig 4.9 Social Media Desktop View (20/12/2025)

Additionally, we created poster ads that can be physically printed or digitally advertised to digital presence. The idea was to introduce the brand to the target audience and enhance its visibility across social media channels. Shown below is the progress of these poster designs. 

Fig 5.1 Posters Progress (20/12/2025)

The poster images were first composed and color corrected in Adobe Photoshop to match the brand's color scheme. Once editing is completed, the images were exported to Adobe Illustrator to incorporate them into the appropriate advertising layout, reflecting the event rationale where it is was mentioned that the product can be promoted through a tech-based pop-up event (e.g., MVEC). Shown below is the final outcome.

Fig 5.2 Advertising Posters (20/12/2025)


With the use of gradients and vibrant colors it allows the poster to be visually striking capturing the consumer attention while clearly communicating information about the brand and its products. Creating interests among the public to visit the pop-up booth. As established by the design direction in the previous project, the colors and typography are consistent in each poster. Reinforcing the brand identity and visual cohesion. 

Rationale:
This poster ad is designed to attract consumers via digital platforms, such as Instagram story ads. Leveraging algorithms and pop up placements, it effectively reaches the target audience and drives engagement by directing viewers to the brand’s social media or physical pop up events. Additionally, the ad creates a sense of urgency by highlighting the Phase 2 merchandise, offering consumers tangible benefits while providing the company with a cost effective marketing strategy. The merchandise integrates into consumers’ daily lives, increasing brand exposure as items are worn or used regularly.


Final Outcome

Pitch Deck Presentation 

Fig 6.1 Presentation Slides (20/12/2025)

Fig 6.2 Presentation Documentation (24/12/2025)

Fig 6.3 Presentation Recording (24/12/2025)

Phase 1

Fig 6.4 Initial Research & Concepts Phase 1 (29/11/2025)

Phase 2

Fig 6.5 Merchandises & Display Final Compilation (PDF) (20/12/2025)

Fig 6.6 Merchandises & Display Final Compilation (JPEG) (21/12/2025)

Phase 3

Fig 6.7 Promotional Strategy Final Compilation (PDF) (20/12/2025)

FEEDBACK

Week 11

  • Headphones case is similar to T-shirt design
  • Mr. Shamsul suggest use design #2 in the sketch
  • The music wave can be used in different shapes

Week 12

  • Wave is too strong and too bright
  • Incorporate the waves the same way as the bottle design
  • Make the wave elements more consistent

Week 13

  • The headset case design is too flat
  • Because of the different material used in each merchandise, it is OK the design looks dark
  • Mr. Shamsul prefer Design #2

REFLECTION

Experience
Working on this project allow me to learn how to further expand the brand though its collaterals and marketing. And now I know I just design any random collaterals or any random marketing medium. It needs to put extra thought into it by explaining why I choose these collaterals to represent my brand and why those these specific types of marketing medium are essential to the brand.

Observation
Sometime whenever I felt stuck, I find it easy to learn how my teammates' take on design so I can improve in the future. Or learn their technique on how to make adjustments to my design.

Findings
One of the mockups I have done, I was frustrated why doesn't the brand color palette doesn't work color palette, and it ended up looking different. Because of that I have to redo several times, but it still didn't look right. Eventually, I soon realized that depending on the material of the product the colors can alter. Additionally, my friends offer some advice that allow me to be flexible on some areas.

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