Computers have changed the ways students study components of design. Once on the computer, students tend to get so excited that they usually neglect to make preliminary sketches. Rather than rely on design software to provide visual solutions, this author chose to use design assignments that are intended to foster thinking in his students. In this article, the author relates how he makes his students learn various forms of handwork in conjunction with Photoshop, scanners, digital cameras, and printers. He also describes an art activity that he introduced to his students that explores the principles of graphic design. (Contains 1 online resource.)