How can you create timeless and on-trend designs for print and packaging?

3 Choose your style

Once you have a clear idea of your audience and the market, you can choose your style and aesthetic for your design. There are many styles and genres of graphic design, such as minimalism, retro, vintage, modern, geometric, organic, etc. You can also mix and match different elements and influences to create your own unique style. The key is to choose a style that suits your project, your brand, and your audience, and that reflects your personality and vision as a designer.

4 Use colors wisely

Colors are one of the most powerful tools in graphic design, as they can evoke emotions, convey meanings, create contrast, and attract attention. However, colors can also be tricky to use as they can vary depending on the medium, the printing process, the lighting, and the perception of the viewer. Therefore, when using colors in your print and packaging design, you should consider a few tips. You should select a color palette that matches your style, your brand, and your message. Tools like Adobe Color or Coolors can help you create or find color palettes that work well together. Additionally, you should be aware of the psychology of colors and how they affect your audience – for instance, red can signify passion or danger while blue can signify trust or professionalism. Moreover, it's important to consider the cultural and social associations of colors and how they differ across regions and groups. Lastly, you should be mindful of the technical aspects of colors and how they will look on different materials and formats; for example RGB colors are used for digital displays while CMYK colors are used for printing. You also need to account for the color mode, resolution, paper type, and ink quality of your print and packaging design.

6 Be creative and original

To be creative and original in your print and packaging design, experiment with different techniques and tools, such as collage, illustration, photography, and typography. Explore different concepts and ideas, such as metaphors, symbols, stories, etc. by using brainstorming techniques like mind mapping or word association. Additionally, seek feedback and criticism from others like peers or clients. Learn from other designers and their work, such as portfolios or books. You can also use online tools like Canva or Adobe Spark to create or edit your design. Moreover, platforms such as Behance or Dribbble can be used to showcase or review your design. Furthermore, joining online communities like AIGA or Graphic Design Forum can help you network or learn from other designers.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?