Java Jewels
Coffee Bag Redesign
Java Jewel is a reimagined coffee packaging system designed to solve a common frustration: measuring the perfect amount of coffee beans. The bag incorporates a built-in plastic dispensing mechanism that reliably releases the right amount every time, combining convenience with thoughtful design. By blending functionality with visual appeal, Java Jewel demonstrates how packaging can enhance both the consumer experience and brand identity.
Concept Sketches and Designs
​Early sketches explored structural and design ideas for how the dispensing mechanism could work. These sketches set the groundowrk for the bag design and overall brand direction. The initial logo concept introduced the foundation of Java Jewel's identity, experimenting with type and icon ideas that later guided the brand's visual style.
Portioning Mechanism
The goal was to create a system that automatically portions coffee beans, prevents staleness, and simplifies resealing, similar to a breakfast cereal dispenser. These initial concepts laid the foundation for both functionality and brand direction.
Material And Engineering Consideration
Bag Structure
The bag uses a multilayer structure for sealability, water and gas barriers, and durability.
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LDPE: For structure and water barrier to protect coffee
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EVOH: For the gas barrier to preserve freshness of coffee beans
Dispensing Mechanism
Key engineering elements include the automatic portioning mechanism, standard degassing valve, and pop-off lid with living hinge.
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HDPE: For the turnstile mechanism
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Pop-off lid with living hinge made of polypropylene
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Freshness seal
Additional Features
all designed to maintain coffee quality and ease of use.
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Standard degassing Valve
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Folded/creased edges for structural integrity​​
Refine Branding
Digital iterations of the logo and brand assets explored typography, icons, and layout directions. These refinements helped establish a clear visual language that guided the final packaging system.
Final Design and Physical Prototype
The completed prototype demonstrates the full concept in action: a coffee bag with an integrated dispensing mechanism that reliably measures beans, paired with polished branding and graphics. The prototype highlights how thoughtful packaging design can merge convenience, precision, and storytelling into one product.
What I Learned and Future Considerations
​Material & Engineering Insights
Through this project, I learned how different plastics are selected for specific packaging functions. I learned that for this package LDPE was most useful for the structure, EVOH for its gas barrier, HDPE for the rigid turnstile, and PP for the lid of the turnstile. Designing the automatic partitioning mechanism reinforced how engineering and material choices directly impact the usability and products performance
Packaging & User Experience
Over this project I gained a deeper understanding of how packaging design affects consumer interaction. Elements like the resealable zip top, the infographics for the instructions, and cutouts to display the coffee enhance the packages overall satisfaction for the customer.
Future Improvements
Further prototyping the packaging could refine the dispensing mechanism and streamline the user interaction. Exploring alternative lid designs or additional usability testing would help optimize both the function and the user experience while maintaining the brand’s visual identity.