Monday, January 13, 2014

Art Supplies for All Ages




Short of a number of colored pencils (and poor color registration), this 1933 box of Eagle brand pencils has survived reasonably well for its age of eighty years. Every time I pull it off the shelf I have to open and close it repeatedly, as I marvel at the clever package design. The box unfolds into a self-standing easel, simply by pushing down on the top half of the carton gently. At the same time the boy on the front of box is transformed from one balancing on a board and a ball, to one just kneeling on a board, while another plays leapfrog over his shoulders. This package is a great example of a successful product design which enhances the user's experience. Presented with a problem to make a self-standing easel, the designer also chose to mechanically transform the boys into a leap-frog game in order to create a value-added element of surprise. Clearly, this pencil set is for children aged 6 to 96.



This simple die-cut box of Bri-tone Jumbo Crayons also illustrates a sort of visual pun. Not only can the consumer see what they are purchasing, but the product is integral to the package design. I've seen similar designs with white chalk used for teeth, and it delights me every time. 
::Source: Christian Monotone 

2 comments:

  1. In the last photo of the Easel Set, is it supposed to look like the background boy is going to whack the foreground kid in the behind with a board?

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  2. Geesch! How did I miss this malicious intent? That is the best part of the entire package design!

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