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Comment by josefresco | Hacker News Reader

This concept is novel because it replaces the need to "design" the app in a separate piece of software (and learn yet another UI). Although I like Balsamiq sometimes sketching is quicker, and more convenient. I think ideally having both options would be good as sometimes the urge to sketch an idea arises, but normally I would use the software.

Also

Idea: They should sell app mockup paper/pads as a side business.

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Check out: UI Stencils http://www.uistencils.com

Can't wait to try POP and UI Stencils together.

Beware if you like sketching with pens only and use these stencils. Will screw up your pen tip.

I've used these stencils before. I would not recommend them. The icon stencils are cut out at the exact size of the icons, but when you're using a stencil you often have to make the stencil larger than the icon you're trying to draw. The result of tracing them often looks like you did a -2px stroke on whatever icon you're illustrating. Also for finer detailed icons, you often can't fit a pencil into the groove of the stencil, even with the provided pencil that comes with it. The lead of the pencil is thicker than the groove in the stencil. The edges of the stencil are often quite sharp as well, and will cut the tips off of felt pens (and create grooves in pencil lead which will cause it to break). Honestly the only thing I now use my stencil for is as a dull knife to open packages (you can easily cut paper, foam, cardboard, or tape with the sides of these things, they aren't sanded down at all).

With stencils use drafting pencils/pens that have a steel sleeve and are designed to be held at right angles to the paper.

Agree on the idea. Pads and colored pencils that allow for more intricate interactions when recognized by the app.

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