Bringing "Paper Engineered" Books to Life
I helped conceptualize and design a series of pop-out paper books that turn ordinary pages into extraordinary objects - no scissors, glue, or crying over complicated instructions required!
The concept was unique: Create pre-cut designs that anyone could punch out and assemble into impressive 3D models without additional tools or frustration. We needed to design something that was visually striking, satisfying to build, and durable enough to display once completed. I faced the additional challenge of creating books that would grab attention on crowded shelves. Each book needed to work as both a product to purchase and an activity to enjoy.
I approached each book as both a design object and a retail product. The covers needed to pop from store shelves while clearly communicating the "no-scissors, no-glue" promise. Inside, I designed models with personality - paper landmarks with distinct character, monsters with attitude, and fashion icons with style. Each piece needed to balance complexity (to satisfy makers) with achievability (to prevent frustrated returns). I constantly asked: "Is this fun to build AND fun to display afterward?"
Execution
Each design started with extensive sketching and prototyping to ensure the pieces would actually fit together (turns out physics applies even to paper monsters!). I obsessed over details like how pieces would connect, what viewing angles would look best, and whether the finished models could stand up to curious pets and accidental bumps. The production process involved countless paper cuts, structural tests, and design tweaks to find that sweet spot between impressive and buildable.
The PAPERMADE series became a publishing success story, expanding to multiple titles including PAPER MONSTERS, PAPER NEW YORK, PAPER LONDON, and PAPER FASHION. The books appealed to both adults and children, finding homes in bookstores, museum shops, and design stores worldwide. The project demonstrated how thoughtful design can transform a simple material into an engaging, interactive experience that bridges crafting and collectible art.
