As Chinese New Year approaches, I’m excited to share the design process behind the creation of our Serpentine Grace Money Packets. It was both a challenge and a joy illustrating my interpretation of the snake—an often misunderstood and feared creature. To me, snakes are elegant and beautifully mysterious, and I wanted to convey that in a way that also celebrates the festive season.
The Colour Palette
Every design begins with selecting a harmonious palette, and this is always one of my favourite steps. After experimenting with bold, vibrant colours in previous years, I opted for soft, spring-inspired hues in 2025 to create a more delicate and approachable take on the snake design.
Draft Sketches
The snake’s form was crucial to achieving an elegant and graceful design. I simplified it into a line drawing and experimented with several iterations. I finally landed on a composition where the snake coils into the motifs of '8' and infinity, symbolising prosperity and renewal — perfect for the festive season.
Fleshing Out the Details
Once the basic form was finalised, it was time to add depth. I incorporated floral embellishments to balance the snake’s form, representing growth and new beginnings, and also complementing the design’s overall message.
Adding the Finishing Touches
With the details in place, it was time to colour it in. I layered the soft pink palette with pops of green to tie everything together, and decided on a greeting text that was auspicious for CNY, yet timeless enough for weddings & other occasions.
For the final touch, I chose a smooth matte finish, consistent with past editions for a luxurious feel. Light gold foil accents were added to bring a touch of sparkle, making the design stand out while staying elegant and refined.
Adding an Alternative Design
Understanding that some might prefer a non-snake option, I created a floral-only variant using the same palette and style. This way, there’s something for everyone — whether you love the symbolism of the snake or prefer a classic floral design.
A Thoughtful Collection for CNY and Beyond
Our Serpentine Grace Money Packet is a limited-edition piece, perfect for those who appreciate designs that balance symbolism and beauty. For those who prefer a timeless touch, the Floral Grace alternative is a versatile option that can be used beyond CNY, even for weddings and other special occasions.
If you haven’t yet, explore our full Floral Grace Collection and find the perfect piece to celebrate this Chinese New Year in style!
For a closer look at my design process in action, check out this reel on Instagram: