Book excerpt: An indispensable reference for design professionals on selecting and using materials in new ways to make their designs ever more efficient and effective Today’s technological advancements have resulted in traditional materials being used in increasingly innovative ways; designers are able to push the materials they use to their limits. Understanding these materials helps designers make inspired, practical decisions with confidence. The Materials Sourcebook for Design Professionals provides comprehensive, accurate information about the basic materials with which designers work on a daily basis, as well as a complete breakdown of new and exciting developments in high-tech materials. This inspiring and useful book is organized into six main sections on all the major design material groups: Metal, Plastic, Wood, Plant, Animal, and Mineral. Each section is broken down into chapters examining individual types of material within each larger group. Nearly one hundred material types are featured, each one supported by examples of how it can be used in a variety of industries, an outline of its most desirable properties, and details about its form and texture. With 450 vibrant illustrations and a clear and accessible layout, this long-term reference tool covers everything designers need to know about the materials they use habitually so they can continue to use them better.