the problem
The problem I wanted to solve was how to create a cute and simplified version of a classic Disney princess, without losing the character's likeness and charm. While many existing products prioritize traditional 'princess' proportions, I saw an opportunity to embrace softer, rounder, and more playful shapes without sacrificing character recognition. I think it's possible to push the cuteness while keeping the classic character's likeness recognizable.
my role
I led this personal spec project from concept to final prototype. My process included market research, concept development, sketching 3D modeling in Maya, sewing a physical prototype, and creating supporting brand assets such as a logo and hangtag design. Each stage informed the next, helping refine both the construction and overall design while staying focused on a single goal: maximizing cuteness without sacrificing quality or character appeal.
the result
The final result is an adorable ragdoll-style Rapunzel plush that serves as a proof of concept for a broader princess plush collection. By balancing strong character recognition with simplified forms and playful proportions, the design remains unmistakably Rapunzel while offering a fresh take on the category.
Tools: Illustrator, Photoshop, Procreate, Maya
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Final Plush Design
Orthographic Turnarounds
The NEIGHBOR team developed this spec spot for Clif Kid Zbar to explore a bold, character-driven direction for the brand. We created a 30-secondfully 3D animated spot. I helped shape the concept, developed the animatic, and contributed to character/prop design, animation, art direction, and final compositing. The result is a high-energy, mixed-media spot designed to capture the adventurous spirit of the product while showcasing our studio’s storytelling and animation capabilities.
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The NEIGHBOR team developed this spec spot for Clif Kid Zbar to explore a bold, character-driven direction for the brand. We created a 30-secondfully 3D animated spot. I helped shape the concept, developed the animatic, and contributed to character/prop design, animation, art direction, and final compositing. The result is a high-energy, mixed-media spot designed to capture the adventurous spirit of the product while showcasing our studio’s storytelling and animation capabilities.
3D Model
Modeled in Maya, Rendered in VRay
Construction Details
The NEIGHBOR team developed this spec spot for Clif Kid Zbar to explore a bold, character-driven direction for the brand. We created a 30-secondfully 3D animated spot. I helped shape the concept, developed the animatic, and contributed to character/prop design, animation, art direction, and final compositing. The result is a high-energy, mixed-media spot designed to capture the adventurous spirit of the product while showcasing our studio’s storytelling and animation capabilities.
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Handmade Prototype
Hangtag Design
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Clif Kid ZBar
Director | Designer | Animator
Early Design for Rapunzel
The NEIGHBOR team developed this spec spot for Clif Kid Zbar to explore a bold, character-driven direction for the brand. We created a 30-secondfully 3D animated spot. I helped shape the concept, developed the animatic, and contributed to character/prop design, animation, art direction, and final compositing. The result is a high-energy, mixed-media spot designed to capture the adventurous spirit of the product while showcasing our studio’s storytelling and animation capabilities.
Clif Kid ZBar
Director | Designer | Animator
The NEIGHBOR team developed this spec spot for Clif Kid Zbar to explore a bold, character-driven direction for the brand. We created a 30-secondfully 3D animated spot. I helped shape the concept, developed the animatic, and contributed to character/prop design, animation, art direction, and final compositing. The result is a high-energy, mixed-media spot designed to capture the adventurous spirit of the product while showcasing our studio’s storytelling and animation capabilities.
A Whole Line of
While this specific spec project focuses on Rapunzel, the design system was intentionally developed with franchise scalability in mind. The same simplified proportions, rounded forms, and stylized aesthetic can be applied across the entire Disney Princess lineup while preserving each character's unique visual identity. This creates an opportunity for a cohesive product line that is instantly recognizable on shelf, encourages collectability, and provides consumers with a consistent brand experience. By balancing strong character likeness with a distinctive design language, the concept has the potential to support future line extensions and cross-promotional initiatives.
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