Pancake Zoo
April 2018 - July 2019
A startup aiming to produce accessories with a stylized ‘flat’ 2D design.
I created several characters to represent and promote the brand. These characters appeared in weekly illustrated content for Instagram (@pancake_zoo_official) featuring them in all kinds of situations and worldwide holidays.
I also took a leading role in R&D of products, including design concepts, prototyping and user testing. The flagship product was a hair bow accessory that embodied the 2D design, these were prototyped in a local makerspace along with keyrings and custom tote bags that were then user tested.
Initial sketches, font considerations and mock ups for the logo, we wanted something cutesy and played around with the mascot, Bearbear, reflecting a pancake shape. In the end we stuck with the original illustration as it felt the most effective.
Our two beloved characters, Bearbear and Catball, we chose their illustrated style to be exclusively in black and white to push the idea of them being 2D and coming to life from paper.
Bearbear is a sassy and cute bear, always donning a bow on her head and getting into mischief (and bringing catball along for the ride).Although she likes to tease her friends she loves them dearly and isn't afraid to speak her mind to them.
Catball is a small, squishy,...cat shaped ball, he doesn't do much talking but always has a little smile on his face. He often finds himself caught up in Bearbear's plans due to his portable size, whether he wants to be there or not.
illustration
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prototyping
Prototyping of the flagship bow from the first paper sketch and sizing to a lasercut mdf model to the final laser cut acrylic piece. Several tests were needed to ensure the coloured acrylic fit snuggly within the outline. A small section was also cut into the centre of the bow to allow the curve of the barrette clip to fit more flush with the surface.
We were very pleased with how the bow turned out, it felt a little heavier than a hair accessory usually would but it held itself well and had the desired effect of a 2D object in a 3D space i.e the head.
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In preparation for out first focus group we planned to make up gift bags for those participating. These consisted of handmade tote bags, a red, blue or white hair bow and a keyring in matching colour. The tote bags were made of cotton canvas/cotton drill and the stencils sprayed with a weather proof spray. Although the process was labour intensive we were very happy with how the pieces turned out.