Start-up Product Design and Identity
Patch Modo, Newport Beach, California
CHALLENGE: Design a logo and identity for a unique, new product. Then create and develop the product line of high-end backpacks, messenger bags and lunch bags to kids K-12, where they can buy and trade patches. The patches would have Velcro hook backs be attached on the Velcro Loop fronts of each item. Hundreds of patches would be designed and produced in a variety of categories, mostly round patches in two sizes to match their personality. These products would be sold in higher end department stores.
SOLUTION: I initially I developed multiple options for the client, with multiple uses. Then the backpacks were designed with a homework pocket, patch pocket, etc. using a variety of colorways. Then the various labels were designed to identify each of the pockets. Then I did a brainstorm of all the categories and roughs of the designs that students of various ages might like. Client wants to use bold colors, various animals, and interests, but avoid any trademarked product or characters. Shown are a few of the backpacks and patches developed.
The sheer volume of parts to keep track of was huge. So I developed a numbering system, and a spreadsheet that would log each item, show when the design was complete, when it was at the factory, purchase tracking, when it needed reorder, inventory numbers, etc.
After working on the project for 6 months, funding became an issue and the project was put on hold before anything was stitched out, but the client was very happy with the product he envisioned. They were even more eye-catching than he expected. So the project is not complete, but on a temporary hold.
