We all know the saying that art imitates life. It reminds us that art often reflects the world we live in, drawing from real experiences, emotions, and observations to create something that feels familiar and engaging. In many ways, print follows that same tradition. Printed pieces have the power to bring ideas, stories, and products to life in a way that feels tangible and memorable. Whether through dimensional formats, interactive mechanisms, or clever use of texture and motion, print can transform an abstract idea into something people can see, touch, and experience. When executed well, print becomes more than a marketing tool. It becomes a moment of discovery that mirrors real-life interaction.

Below are a few examples that showcase how print can imitate life and elevate communication through thoughtful design.

Saint Mary’s Recruitment Mailer

Saint Mary’s University used this engaging pop-up mailer to recruit prospective students to its Halifax campus. Mailed flat for cost efficiency, the piece unfolded to reveal a colorful, dimensional replica of the university and vibrant scenes of Halifax, Nova Scotia including the school’s athletic field. Further inside, a dedicated panel highlighted the various areas of study offered, along with unique QR codes that allowed recipients to explore each program in more detail. This creative design combined visual impact, interactivity, and affordability to deliver a wealth of information in one memorable mailer.

BASF Staged Mailer

BASF used our staged mailer design to promote two of their pigweed prevention products. The cover featured three die-cut images of fields. As the bottom panel was pulled down, the mailer opened to reveal staged pop-up images of pigweed that demonstrated what could happen if fields were not treated for these invasive plants. The design delivered a clear and immediate visual message.

Ontario One Call Magic X Ray Viewer

Ontario One Call is a not-for-profit organization that provides a service for homeowners, contractors, and excavators to request the location of underground utility lines before digging. adHome Creative partnered with Information Packaging to create the Magic X Ray Viewer direct mailer as a way to demonstrate the effectiveness of their client’s services while engaging the recipient. Inside the mailer, a paper X Ray was affixed to a mylar window with an image of grass. As the viewer slid across the mylar, the benefits of Ontario One Call’s services magically appeared below the surface, revealing what is normally out of sight.

Embecta Educational Tool

Embecta created this informational guide to educate physicians about the risks of improper site rotation and needle reuse, which can lead to lipohypertrophy. The guide also highlighted how their Lipohypertrophy Identification Tool can assist in managing this condition. The cover featured an image of an abdomen covered by stretchy fabric, with bumps that could be felt when pressed, symbolizing the effects of lipohypertrophy. Inside, the guide included step-by-step instructions for proper site rotation and a QR code that linked to additional educational resources.

Cirque du Soleil Magic X Ray Viewer

Cirque du Soleil used the Magic X Ray Viewer as a B to B mailer to announce exclusive VIP offerings during the run of Kurios. After opening the cover of the self-mailer, a paper magnifying glass highlighted messaging inside the circular mylar window. This unique format has been embraced by several industries as a way to showcase product features and service benefits through a playful and interactive reveal.

DuPont Triton C Mailer

Information Packaging was asked to create a functional mailer for DuPont Canada’s Triton C agricultural product. The circular mailer featured three pull-tabs that extended in the shape of blades, creating a perfect tie-in to their message about controlling cleavers. Inside, the mailer included product information and a clear call to action, all presented in a dynamic and memorable format.

Closing

These examples demonstrate how print can capture attention by imitating real-world experiences that audiences instantly understand. When a mailer opens, unfolds, pops up, or reveals hidden information, it creates a moment of interaction that digital communication cannot replicate. At Information Packaging, we believe that every project is an opportunity to turn a message into an experience. When print comes to life, it invites the recipient to explore, engage, and connect in a more meaningful way. If you are ready to bring your next idea to life, our team is here to help you create something unforgettable.

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