Mean Mr. Mustard Hard Soda (Student Project)

Designer: Old Riley Artworks
Project Type: Student Project
School: Pratt
Course: Graphic Design II
Tutor: Michael Gerbino
Location: United States
Packaging Contents: Bottled Hard Soda (6 pack)
Packaging Substrate / Materials: Cardboard and Paper
Printing Process: Digital Printing

Inspired by the Beatles, this line of hard soda is an adult take on a childhood beverage. Using the fussy and grumpy Mean Mr. Mustard as the brand identity, this design plays into the aggressive yet playful nature of the song itself to speak to the product. With flavors including Yer Blues, Apple Tart, Pineapple Heart, Coconut Fudge, Cherry Cream, and Creme Tangerine, this product is a significant tribute to the Beatles and how their clever lyrics can be applied to a company and its image.

What’s Unique?
A unique factor to this design is the handle for the box. I wanted to experiment with die cuts to allow the consumer to interact with the design as they hold it. With the top handle, the user puts their fingers in the holes to hold the box and their fingers sticking out of the box completes the illustrated character’s smile. Subtle but playful and makes all the difference for the user experience.