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One of the best things I ever did was to train in a…

“One of the best things I ever did was to train in a practical skill. I love computers and they've become such a part of life, especially to the world of design. But it's important to understand that they are a tool, as much as a hammer or a saw is a tool. Computers don't help you design. There…” quote by Marc Newson
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“One of the best things I ever did was to train in a practical skill. I love computers and they've become such a part of life, especially to the world of design. But it's important to understand that they are a tool, as much as a hammer or a saw is a tool. Computers don't help you design. There needs to be more emphasis on training young designers in how to build things. A good writer needs a good vocabulary. A good designer needs to understand his materials and processes. You can't, as a successful designer, pretend to get any respect if you don't know how things are made.”

Marc Newson

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Designers must master both conceptual ideas and the practical tools of their craft; understanding materials is essential.

In simple terms: Know your tools and materials.

Key Takeaway

Study fundamentals.

Themes

design craftsmanship education

Mood

analytical pragmatic

Type

educational professional

When to use this quote

  • product design
  • architecture
  • software training

Key Concepts

Material literacy interdisciplinary skill

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can designers balance theory and hands‑on practice?
  • What tools best reveal material properties?
A Different Perspective

Emphasis on tools may undervalue intuition.

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