FAZE Effects (Student Project)

Designer: Collin Garcia
Project Type: Student Project
School: University of Wisconsin – Stout
Course: Product and Packaging Graphics
Tutor: Nagesh Shinde
Location: Menomonie, WI, USA
Packaging Contents: Effect Pedals
Packaging Materials: Folding board, modeling foam, acrylic, adhesive paper

Most effect pedal brands have a very static approach to the design, with few standing out as having a personality that complements the vibrancy of the medium. This is why I developed a brand that reciprocates the energetic nature of the guitar effect pedal. This is done through dynamic packaging and bold illustrations.

The idea behind FAZE is taking the sensation of sound and shaping it into a tangible experience. FAZE is abstracted from the word “phase”, which is not only a type of guitar effect, but literally means “the appearance or aspect in which a thing of varying modes or conditions manifests itself to the eye or mind”, yielding the brand’s core concept and its connection to sound effects.

Each package showcases the pedal through a museum-style display window, which calls attention to the design of each pedal. Effect pedals are meant to be artifacts that people keep and protect, and the package design reflects this through simple durable boxes that can be reused for FAZE or other pedals after their initial use. The names and illustrations for each pedal were inspired by playing/listening to each effect and responding to them symbolically and aesthetically. This creates another level of personal connection for the user; to inspire. FAZE’s goal is to turn the simple pedal into a work of art itself, to reflect the quality and craft that goes into creating it and the sonic art it produces.

What’s Unique?
Every FAZE pedal is original. The individual design and aesthetic treatment of each pedal reciprocates the authenticity of each sound you’re creating. The details in the packaging enhance this as well; the laser etched logo, carefully chosen box materials, and unique dieline shape all contribute to the entire user experience. This connection of visual and audio stimulation creates a vivid brand personality that will separate FAZE from ordinary effect pedals.