MIDI Instruments work with computers to create virually infinite sounds, but their interfaces cannot be customised to match their infinite possibilities. Instead of producing different standalone devices with various button and slider layouts I created ‘Paper Sound System’ with feedback from Playback Sounds. This clamshell device uses pogo pins to interface with conductive ink pads and traces, drawn by the user on paper. This paper is preprinted with guides for different layouts, custom image backgrounds to add personalisation to each instrument, or left blank for complete creative freedom, the only markings required the guides for interface pin pads. These paper sheets can be swapped out and different images, buttons and sliders printed and drawn on each page. This offers far more interface flexibility with less space, cost and waste.

Buttons can be created with two areas of ink positioned close together and bridged by a finger, a slider with a shaded line of pencil to present various resistance and another ink pad. I also created a index to thumb conductor to help increase reliability of use for those with less conductive skin chemistry.

Up to 9 Buttons and 3 Sliders
A4 footprint
PLA housing 197 x 50 mm
Arduino Pro Micro based
USB C VIN/DOUT
2025