"Basics Product Design: Material Thoughts" describes the various materials and processes available to product designers and encourages experimental approaches to product design and finishing. The book explores the thinking of leading designers and producers who are able to challenge convention through curiosity and experimentation. "Basics Product Design: Material Thoughts" aims to promote a physical inquiry of materials and a mentality that constantly asks 'what could be done if' - rather than considering only what is being done.

About the Author

David Bramston is an industrial designer and has presented work worldwide. David is the subject leader for product design at the University of Lincoln. He has worked in the design industry on projects for companies such as Motorola, Swatch and Christian Dior.

Table of Contents

Introduction. How to get the most out of this book. Impossible acts?: Wood; Metal; Plastic; Glass and ceramic; Paper. Producers: Forming; Moulding; Shaping; Fabrication. Visual stories: Texture and colour; Scale and form; Structure; Tangential. Experimental approaches: Abnormality; Improvise; Hybrids; Cross discipline. Instant acts: Realising thoughts; Sophisticated simplicity; Inspired by nature; Seeing things differently. Can it be done?: Research centres; Exhibitions; Alternative sources; Material libraries; Projects. Conclusion. Glossary. Further resources. Contacts. Acknowledgements. Working with ethics.

Reviews

"Material Thoughts" is an inspiring reference for students, designers and artists alike, a useful tool in the search to create something different or never done before.
Frame Magazine

Good title and I like the concept of discussing approaches to material use. Interesting content accompanied by product images that were refreshingly new.  A book to be read cover to cover.
Stefano Santilli, Brighton University, UK