Pack-it-all Backpacks + Clip-In Lunchboxes 2020

This backpack collection was designed in response to reviews and customer data from our existing backpacks. Unfortunately, the timing of this collection was right as the world went into lockdown and most children did a year of school at home (without backpacks of course).

Ideation (backpacks)

Ideation (lunch)

Project Purpose

This project was intended to directly address several consumer pain points: square shape rather than round to reduce bent folders, lumbar support in the lower back, convenient name tags, and places to hook lunchboxes.

Prototyping with suppliers

Initial prototypes weren’t pretty. We evaluated several suppliers in parallel by their quality, ability to follow draftings, and price competitiveness.

More directions & color exploration

Historically at Wildkin, the patterned bags sold best compared to the solid colored options. Due to this, we introduced several staple patterns from other collections here, while still experimenting with transparent and textured materials. Click to the right to follow how the bags evolved.

Working closely with our manufacturers

Scouting the right materials and pricing is easier to do in person, rather than email. Here’s my journey looking through endless fabric, zippers, piping, and meshes available from many different suppliers.