Explosion box
Created the ultimate explosion box for my partner's mum birthday, inspired by her favourite flower - orchids. With a clear theme and genuine intention, I set out to create a gift that will blow her away!
2022
Art & craft
Card making
Scrapbooking
Passion project
Canva
See case studies.
Wasn't able to find orchid-patterned designs, I decided to go ahead with a similar floral print. Based on this, I then collected coloured papers that match the palette of my chosen design.
I took on the challenge of tackling the most complex mechanisms first - the waterfall cards on the top right and bottom left corners, and the double-sliding card on the bottom right corner.
With those complete, I was able to focus on the other elements that were less intricate.
A challenge that came up was that the patterned-design paper I chose for the box was very thin and fragile, making it a challenge to work with. I had to consider how to create a sturdy lid that would hold the box securely in place while still looking elegant and beautiful.
Eventually, I came up with an idea of using sturdy HelloFresh recipe cards as the base. To finish the lid, I cut the coloured paper to match the size of each outer surface to reinforce the shape, and then wrapped them in the floral wrapping paper.
After some experimentation, I was able to create an arrangement that I was satisfied with. To create balance and harmony, I placed the elements with floral design at the four corners of the box.
The photos finally arrived. Yayyy!
I used Canva to meticulously plan out the size and placement of each photo and was able to print out nearly 40 photos using only 6 photo files.
And just when I thought I was done, I realised the box needed something more. Without the signifiers for where to pull, slide, or open the cards, the box was incomplete.
I came up with the perfect solution - ribbons!
I carefully poked holes through the paper with a pen and threaded the ribbons through. After tying both ends of the ribbon together and heat sealing them with a lighter, the ribbons added a finishing touch that complemented the box's design and materials.
The design process.
My aim for this project is to craft a birthday gift that's not only memorable but also minimizes material waste and maximizes the reuse and repurposing of household items whenever possible.
The design process.
My aim for this project is to craft a birthday gift that's not only memorable but also minimizes material waste and maximizes the reuse and repurposing of household items whenever possible.