Branding Rethinking Package Design
Adobe Illustrator, Large Format Printing, Chipboard
April 2024
Bounce Back.
I designed packaging for a stress ball that transforms into a mini basketball hoop, combining stress relief with play to help kids unwind after school. The goal was to create packaging that served a dual purpose, offering more than just a container for the product. Named "Bounce Back," the concept symbolized resilience and recovery, capturing the idea of bouncing back from challenges, much like the repetitive motion of squeezing and releasing a stress ball. The design focused on creating an interactive experience that would excite and engage kids, encouraging them to channel their energy into something fun and stress-relieving.
Inspired by my childhood memories of playing basketball, I wanted the design to evoke the same sense of joy and creativity I experienced growing up. The playful nature of the packaging reflects this, turning an ordinary product into a source of entertainment and relaxation, making it a versatile and enjoyable tool for winding down after a busy day at school. This dual-purpose approach not only adds value to the product but also reinforces the message of resilience and the importance of finding moments of play amid stress.
The project started with a basketball-themed stress ball, and the packaging was designed to reflect its playful and energetic concept, featuring a warm gradient color palette of orange and red to match the basketball aesthetic, paired with fun basketball-related illustrations and bold typography to create an engaging and kid-friendly look.
The project expanded to include a tennis-themed stress ball, with packaging designed to match the sporty and vibrant theme, featuring a fresh green and yellow color palette inspired by tennis courts and lively tennis-related illustrations that highlight the fun and interactive nature of the product.
Lastly, the project expanded to a third sport with a soccer-themed stress ball, featuring sleek packaging in a bold variant gray color palette reminiscent of a soccer field, along with playful soccer-related illustrations and phrases that relate to the sport, emphasizing the product's fun and versatile nature. Having three made it feel like an actual cohesive brand.
The design was bright and bold, drawing inspiration from existing stress ball packaging but elevated to stand out on shelves. Every detail of the design was intentional.
Inside each box, the surprises continued with thoughtfully designed components that extended the product’s appeal. Clear, easy-to-follow instructions guided kids on assembling the mini basketball hoop, ingeniously using the packaging itself as the frame—eliminating the need for glue or tape. Hidden within a false bottom, kids would find a net, stickers, and a pamphlet packed with creative game ideas to encourage endless fun and engagement. This clever packaging not only enhanced the product’s functionality but also created a delightful unboxing experience, adding an extra layer of excitement and value for the user.
