UNFOLDED
unfolded is a card game designed to spark meaningful conversations. The cards start light, then slowly deepen towards vulnerability and reflection. Inspired by the layered nature of Islamic growth, the cards move through five progressive levels, mirroring the structure of the five pillars of Islam.
Process
This project was my introduction to building a physical product from scratch. I learned InDesign specifically for this project, taking handwritten concept sketches and turning them into a final printed card deck. The visual direction was built around simplicity, warmth and clarity with each level purposely feeling distinct while still cohesive as a series.
The original idea was to have NIYA members physically write the questions on paper and fold it several times based on the level so the deeper the level, the more creases the card would visually have. The concept was symbolic; reflection becomes layered, then eventually “unfolded.” After scanning the paper, the execution didn’t translate well. Either the creases weren’t visible or the resolution wasn’t high enough to print cleanly.
I pivoted the approach and instead asked for photos of handwritten questions on blank paper. From there, I extracted the handwriting in Photoshop and placed it onto textured paper digitally. This allowed me to preserve the human still, handwritten feel but with cleaner control, consistency and print quality.
Original concept (scanning)
Final execution
outcome
unfolded became both a physical deck and a content-led conversation starter that can be used across events, community spaces, youth groups and casual social settings. It now exists as a tool that can continue to spark dialogue in different environments, and the assets created can be repurposed for future social posts, campaigns or even expanded editions of the deck.
I captured content at The New Zealand Halal Show to help extend the experience into the digital space. This will now become a short video series that shows the cards being used in real interactions, capturing genuine reactions and conversations.
This project opened a new lane of design for me, bridging physical product, storytelling, video content and cultural context in one piece. It is something I intend to keep growing.
