Best way to create custom packaging? (cardboard box)

[Ampix0]

I am actually looking to replicate the packaging of the Funko POP! boxes. There are multiple PSD files online for the template, but I am looking for a good method of getting the design printed on a similar glossy cardboard material as the original box. So far the best solution I have seen online is to get the design printed on photo paper and use spray adhesive to glue it to cardboard. The end result looks good, but I wanted to see what you guys say.

Example of one of the boxes:

 

[Mike J.]

Go to a copyshop or printshop and have them print it on glossy white cardstock for you? It'll probably be lighter stock than the real box material. The folding will be the most difficult part. Your paper will want to wrinkle or the print will want to crack.

Or a color laser print on glossy white paper, not cardstock, if you intend to wrap it around a 'real' box?

 

[Volksfrei]

What gives the actual box a gloss finish is a varnish applied to the box immediately after printing. The best way to replicate that, and it still won't compare to an actual spot varnish, would be to spray your print with Krylon Clear Finish after you've comped the box. A few light coats should do the trick.

As for the box: I'd suggest printing on a light weight paper, then mounting that to a card stock with Scotch Super 77 Spray Mount. After that bonds, cut and score. Don't pre-cut the print and card stock separately, before gluing them together. They'll never align properly. For the folds, score the fold marks with the back end of an X-Acto (the section that locks into the handle). A few passes is enough to crush down the fibers and give you a clean fold. Invest in a bone folder for crisp folds, too.

Im a graphic Designer with 10 years experience comping pieces for portfolios and client meetings.

Cheers,
John

 

[Ampix0]

What gives the actual box a gloss finish is a varnish applied to the box immediately after printing. The best way to replicate that, and it still won't compare to an actual spot varnish, would be to spray your print with Krylon Clear Finish after you've comped the box. A few light coats should do the trick.

As for the box: I'd suggest printing on a light weight paper, then mounting that to a card stock with Scotch Super 77 Spray Mount. After that bonds, cut and score. Don't pre-cut the print and card stock separately, before gluing them together. They'll never align properly. For the folds, score the fold marks with the back end of an X-Acto (the section that locks into the handle). A few passes is enough to crush down the fibers and give you a clean fold. Invest in a bone folder for crisp folds, too.

Im a graphic Designer with 10 years experience comping pieces for portfolios and client meetings.

Cheers,
John

Yup this is almost exactly what was done in the video I had scene. I'll have to see if I can find a print shop willing to do a single print though, I believe the sheet needs to be a bit bigger than your standard printer can handle.

 

[Krats]

What gives the actual box a gloss finish is a varnish applied to the box immediately after printing. The best way to replicate that, and it still won't compare to an actual spot varnish, would be to spray your print with Krylon Clear Finish after you've comped the box. A few light coats should do the trick.

As for the box: I'd suggest printing on a light weight paper, then mounting that to a card stock with Scotch Super 77 Spray Mount. After that bonds, cut and score. Don't pre-cut the print and card stock separately, before gluing them together. They'll never align properly. For the folds, score the fold marks with the back end of an X-Acto (the section that locks into the handle). A few passes is enough to crush down the fibers and give you a clean fold. Invest in a bone folder for crisp folds, too.

Im a graphic Designer with 10 years experience comping pieces for portfolios and client meetings.

Cheers,
John

I work in packaging design and this is exactly how I would produce a sample. Solid advice.

In the absence of a bone folder I use the back edge of a butter knife.

 

[Vgonman]

Here's a vid Jimmy DiResta did a while back regarding custom packaging.