Themed Pencil Set: Adding Playful Joy to Gifting

Designer: Charmaine Leung

Leung's Themed Pencil Set is a collection of fun and informative pencil sets packaged with matching acrylic pencil rings. The aim is to introduce convenience and aesthetics to ready-to-gift products while minimizing wastage of wrapping materials. The acrylic ring that binds the pencils can be reused as a pendant for a necklace or a key ring, adding an extra touch of creativity and sustainability.

The pencil themes in this collection started with British-inspired designs, such as the London Underground pencils, where the color of the tube lines and interchanges are reflected on the pencils through the color of the pencil and foiling. Other themes include Cockney Rhyming Slangs, English Biscuits, and English Gardener's, all reimagining and redefining the typical Union Jack British souvenir pencil for gifting.

As the collection expanded, Leung incorporated iconic themes like Morse Codes, romancing in foreign languages, and even a recipe and ingredients to make an English cocktail. This broadens the scope of occasions for gifting and appeals to a wider target audience.

The Themed Pencil Set is not only visually appealing but also functional. The pencils are made of wood and are HB hexagon-shaped, providing a comfortable grip for writing or drawing. The foiling adds a touch of elegance to the design, making them stand out from ordinary pencils.

Leung's attention to detail extends to the packaging as well. The acrylic pencil rings are laser-cut to fit the size of the pencils, creating a cohesive and visually pleasing set. When a pencil needs to be used or sharpened, it can easily be slid through the acrylic ring. For those who want to use the ring as a pendant, perforated holes are provided to slide a chain through, allowing for personalization and creativity.

The Themed Pencil Set project started in July 2014 and was ready for commercial pitching by September of the same year. Throughout the design process, Leung conducted extensive research, observing daily British habits and items that define Britishness. The goal was to create a memorable gift that captures the essence of the UK and brings joy to both the giver and the receiver.

The positive feedback and resonance with the themes of the pencils resulted in commercial viability, with wholesale contracts within the UK and Europe. Leung's Themed Pencil Set has proven to be a successful and innovative gifting option, bringing a touch of fun and elegance to any occasion.

This design was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Art and Stationery Supplies Design category in 2015. The award recognizes outstanding and creatively ingenious designs that contribute to quality of life improvements and make the world a better place. Leung's Themed Pencil Set embodies these qualities, showcasing strong technical and creative skills.