Music Therapy Threads
2024
Branding, logo design, website design, merchandise design, book design, 2D
Credits: Mockups from Adobe Stock and Graphic Burger; all other credits can all be found in process book linked below :)
For my senior capstone project, I was tasked with identifying a problem I see in the world and designing a solution for it. I chose to tackle the lack of awareness surrounding music therapy and its benefits. Music therapy is often not regarded as highly as other forms of therapy, such as physical therapy or occupational therapy, despite the therapists’ years of training and certification. Additionally, many states do not require board certification, meaning insurance companies will not cover service fees.
The development of Music Therapy Threads as a brand aims to advocate for music therapy by educating the public on what music therapy and how it benefits us. This will be accomplished through a website that also serves as a marketplace for clothing and accessories inspired by music therapy. Profits from sales would fund therapy services for those that cannot afford them.
For the branding elements, I wanted to utilize cool, calming colors, and a main typeface, Agrandir, that is professional yet still playful and inviting. The shirts utilize a typeface, Bailiwick JF Gothic, that is more playful, but still very legible. The logo combines a music note with a needle and thread to visually represent the brand’s name. To create consistency, these aspects are used throughout the website and products.
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Branding
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Website
The Music Therapy Threads Website prototype can be accessed through this QR code. On the website, there are pages with information about the Music Therapy Threads brand, information about music therapy as a profession, product pages, a contact page, and a donations page.
Products
In the accessories section, there are two products, a pillow and a blanket, that are part of the “Soundwaves” line. This design was created by dividing the ages of patients into 7 groups: prenatal, babies, children 1-5, children 6-10, teens, adults/families, and seniors/end of life. For each of these groups, and using a list created by a music therapist, I chose a song for each group and converted it into soundwaves to create an engaging design.
With every purchase, big or small, customers will receive this postcard-and I’ll pass a few around for you. When the QR code is scanned, it brings them to a hidden page of the website that is only accessible via that code, like this one. There will be multiple pages, each featuring a different video or blog style post from a music therapist, patient, or patient’s family member telling their story regarding music therapy. The buyer does not know which story they will get to view, making each purchase a unique, fun experience.
Process Book
If you’d like to read more about my process for this project, including the full project brief, research, and the design process, you can download my book here!
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In the apparel section of the website, there are multiple shirts featuring designs inspired by music therapy. Their monochrome nature keeps the focus on the message as opposed to a variety of colors; it also makes it more intriguing to take a closer look at. There is also a section for accessories and home items, featuring a tote, hat, blanket, pillow, and a sticker.
