Touch This: Graphic Design That Feels Good

In today's high-tech, virtual world, where things exist, but then again they don't, people are drawn irresistibly to "touch-friendly" designs. It's little wonder that graphic design using unusual materials that call out to be touched get noticed and build image like no others.

Design on nontraditional materials attracts both designers and consumers. The subject fascinates consumers because they recognize that unique materials can be difficult to engineer and incorporate, and thus tactile design nearly always becomes coveted and collectible. Moreover, the designer who can get a consumer to interact with a product, whether it's a brochure or a package, increases the chance of making a memorable connection and, even better yet, a sale.

This book features intriguing projects that incorporate a gamut of "you can't print on that" materials, including pleated, Issey Miyake type forms and razor-thin metal business cards; X-ray film; heat-sensitive inks; ceramic tiles; and carpet samples. In short, there are design solutions in this book that use any and everything, except plain paper.

Designer Scott Witham, who has worked for global clients including Sony, Virgin, Orange, Bacardi-Martini Ltd., and the Royal Bank of Scotland, is the creative director of his own company, Traffic Design Consultants in Glasgow. He is also the author of Festive: The Art and Design of Promotional Mailing.