PACKAGING & MERCHANDISING DESIGN - EXERCISE 2

 

4/5/2026 - 23/5/2026(Week3-Week5）

ZHANG QIYU/0384019

Packaging & merchandising design/Bachelor of Design in Creative Media/Taylor’s University

Exercise 2: Structural Anatomy of the Money Packet

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LECTURES

This project requires two structurally unique money packets made of unprinted white cardstock. Beauty must come from folding, interlocking (at least one glue-less closure), and die-cutting—focusing on kinetic opening (e.g., pop-up, multi-stage) and material strength. Deliverables: 1:1 die-lines, two mock-ups (160–220gsm), two 10-second videos (opening/closing), and an e-portfolio.

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INSTRUCTIONS

Research 

Before developing my final designs, I researched different money packet styles, online tutorials, and existing envelope structures. I collected ideas that matched my preferences and analysed different opening methods, folding systems, and locking mechanisms. After that, I modified and combined some of the ideas to develop my own money packet designs.

Fig 1.1 Research

Sketches

These sketches explore different money packet structures, opening methods, and locking systems. Through sketching, I tested different ideas before selecting the final two designs, including a pull-out packet and a glueless folded packet.

Fig 1.2 Sketches

Money Packet 1 

For my first money packet, I wanted to create a design that focuses on movement and interaction. Instead of using a traditional opening method, I developed a pull-out mechanism that allows the money packet to slide out through a pulling action.

The idea was inspired by packaging systems that use drawers or sliding structures. I wanted the user to experience a small moment of discovery when opening the packet.

The final pull-out packet creates an interactive opening experience through sliding movement. The structure combines an outer sleeve, an inner envelope, and a pull mechanism to guide the user’s action.Compared to a conventional money packet, this design places greater emphasis on movement, user engagement, and packaging interaction.

Fig 2.1 Technical die-lines (1:1 scale) of money packet 1

Money Packet 2

For my second design, I created a square money packet using a fully folded structure without glue. The main focus was developing a locking mechanism that could keep the packet closed through folding and interlocking.

I experimented with different fold positions and locking methods before choosing the final structure. This helped improve the stability of the packet and make the opening process clearer.

 Fig 2.2 Technical die-lines (1:1 scale) of money packet 2

Two Money packet Technical die-lines (1:1 scale)

 Fig 2.3 Technical die-lines (1:1 scale) of money packet 1（PDF)

                           Fig 2.4 Technical die-lines (1:1 scale) of money packet 2（PDF)

Final high-fidelity mock-ups

Money Packet 1

Fig 2.5 Final high-fidelity mock up 1

Money Packet 2

Fig 2.6 Final high-fidelity mock up 2

10-second video

Money Packet 1

Fig 2.7 10 second video for money packet 1

Money Packet 2

Fig 2.8 10 second video for money packet 2

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FEEDBACK

Week 3

• General Feedback：Week 3 introduced paper structure and folding systems through The Architecture of the Fold. We experimented with envelope construction by building white models and comparing materials with different thickness levels.
• Specific Feedback：The lecturer commented that my prototype lacked structural strength because the paper was too thin. He advised using heavier paper stock to improve stability and create a stronger premium feel.

Week 4

• General Feedback：This week focused on concept generation. We were asked to produce multiple money packet sketches exploring different opening systems, closure methods, and movement interactions.
• Specific Feedback：I needed to continue expanding my design exploration before moving into the final stage. Producing more structural variations would help identify stronger solutions.

Week 5

• General Feedback：Week 5 introduced the label redesign project while also continuing reviews for the money packet exercise. The session covered label content requirements, branding consistency, and design communication.
• Specific Feedback：We were required to collect examples of ineffective packaging from different categories. The task was not only to bring the products, but also to explain the weaknesses behind their design decisions.

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REFLECTION

Experience

Over these five weeks, I experienced packaging design from both analytical and practical approaches. The ugly packaging exercise helped me understand common design mistakes, while the money packet project introduced me to folding structures, mock-up building, and paper engineering. I also began learning about branding communication through the label design project.

Observation

One important observation from this learning process is that good packaging design relies on both appearance and performance. During the money packet project, I noticed how small changes in material thickness, fold precision, and opening mechanics could significantly change the user experience.

Finding

Through feedback, experimentation, and prototype testing, I realised that packaging design requires continuous refinement. Structural details that may seem minor — such as edge shape, locking method, or interaction direction — can strongly influence how users understand and value a design.