Analysis of Handicrafts and their Imitation as Product Packaging Based on the Theory of Semantic Rotation and Human-Centered Design by Klaus Krippendorff

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Assistant Professor, Department of Handicrafts, Faculty of Arts, University of Birjand, Birjand, Iran.

Abstract

The present study aims to identify the characteristics and requirements of two types of packaging based on handicrafts and their imitations, influenced by Klaus Krippendorff's semantic rotation theory and discussed from the perspective of human-centered design. The basic research questions are as follows: 1- How does the use of handicrafts (real) or its imitation (unreal, simulation) in product packaging design lead to different perceptions? 2- How can handicrafts as product packaging apply the concepts and requirements of human-centered design in order to distinguish it from its imitation and to "make meaning" and "create value"? The research is descriptive-analytical and based on the theories of Klaus Krippendorff, which refers to the principle of the centrality of meaning in artifacts. The results of the research show that the prevalence of packaging based on handicrafts and imitation by designers has led to the formation of two types of consumers or special users and general users. Although users do not consider themselves bound by this division. In the category of packaging products based on various handicrafts, concepts such as understanding the diversity of users become important, which product is packaged with which type of handicraft will be important, and uniqueness due to the lack of mass production, relying on local aesthetics, increases the attractiveness of this type of packaging to users. Concepts that can also lead to added value for the product packaged with handicrafts. In imitation packaging, however, value creation is based on product sales and not on user satisfaction evaluation. Also, packaging based on handicrafts has the feature of reuse, which means that new meanings will be formed in the situation of its use each time it is used. These meanings can include social identification and a sense of satisfaction with the purchase. In the case of pretend packaging, not only is reuse not an option, but designers must limit and control this feature for reasons including environmental considerations.

Keywords

Main Subjects

Smiley face

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Packaging Science and Art
Volume 16, Issue 63 - Serial Number 63
Serial number 63, autumn 2025
September 2025
Pages 13-28

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History

  • Receive Date: 26 September 2025
  • Revise Date: 28 October 2025
  • Accept Date: 06 December 2025
  • Publish Date: 21 December 2025

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