Alloys

Alloys is a compact, multi-purpose desk object designed and developed by Notion Builds LLC, a studio based in Austin, Texas. The company frames its design approach around three ideas, FUN, FORM and FUNCTION, and Alloys is presented as an expression of all three: something to play with, something to look at, and something with a practical job to do.

Solid metal, minimal form

The maker says each piece is precision-machined from sturdy metals including aluminium, brass and stainless steel. The pitch leans on the material itself: a palm-sized object with noticeable weight and a cool metallic feel, styled simply enough to sit on an office or home desk without looking out of place. Because it is metal rather than plastic, the maker positions it as durable and easy to wipe clean.

One object, several roles

• Die: according to the maker, Alloys can be used as a die for Dungeons & Dragons and other tabletop RPGs, with a precise weight balance intended to keep rolls random and fair.
• Measuring tool: its edges can be used to measure length, which the maker suggests is useful for detail work, DIY and model building.
• Fidget toy: the maker describes smooth rotation and a tactile feel for spinning or rolling between the fingers during work or study.
• Portable: the palm-sized footprint is meant to slip into a pocket or bag.

The campaign pitches Alloys at a few overlapping audiences: designers and other desk-bound creatives looking for something to keep their hands busy, tabletop gamers who want a heavier, more substantial die, and makers who could use a measuring edge within reach.

A Kickstarter project

Alloys was launched as a Kickstarter project, and according to the source it drew backing well beyond its funding goal.