For graphic designers, the US Dollar represents the holy grail of sought-after re-designs, and these concepts by Michael Tyznik get about as close to holy as is possible. They not only look great, but they introduce a few new features like the illuminated strip that varies in width from denomination to denomination and the tiny brail section at the bottom of every bill. Both of these innovations not only make the bill easier to identify, but also add a new challenge for counterfeiters. If only bureaucracy wasn’t such a shit storm. [via Monomoda]

Now, setting aside the negative feelings you may have towards the iphone edition of the macbook air (ipad), we know you can appreciate this awesome ipad case. The BOOK is taking the whole e-reader functionality to a new level by giving it the look and feel of a real book. As an added bonus, if like I imagine many of you may be, you are embarrassed to own the ipad, then it also doubles as camouflage. Comes in 13″ Macbook and Kindle edition as well. [via Holycool]

There’s only one thing cuter than miniatures, and it’s miniatures carrying big people things, which is at least half the reason these tiny trucks by Osaka based artist duet Paramodel are so good. That’s right, these little sculptures have a sushi back to them, and in my opinion could not emphasize more the incredible ability of the japanese to combine consumerism with delicious food. [via White Zine]

Sony just introduced this new “ultra-compact” interchangeable lens DSLR at PMA in Anaheim and I think I’m in love. The concept combines clean lines, economy, and the ability to take DSLR quality images. No word yet of release date. [via Engadget]

We love coming across bands that have the vibes to match their jams and I feel confident in saying The Ruby Suns is one of those. Hailing all the way from Auckland, New Zealand, they combine a distinct freak element (think Animal Collective) with something more melodic and tonal (think The Microphones) to produce one of the most pleasing and unique sounds I’ve heard in a while. Nestled alongside fellow Sub Pop artists Fleetfoxes and Beach House, The Ruby Suns find themselves in good company musically with a serious future ahead of them internationally. It’s real refreshing to get ahold of something new that is really worth appreciating. Then, as if these three guys weren’t good enough, they told us the two things they’re most excited about right now aside from the release of their second album Fight Softly and immediately ascended two notches.

1. My 1999 Dodge Ram 15 Seater Van.
I just got this baby for real cheap. It only needed minor repairs, but that’s all sorted now. It’s smooth, spacious, and, carbon footprint aside, awesome! Considering there’s going to be 7 of us travelling together on this next tour, it’s going to perfect. This is the first vehicle I’ve ever bought in the states which is sort of funny because I live in NZ. We rent a vehicle every time we come to the states to tour and I was about to rent a van for 5 weeks when I found my burgundy beauty for cheaper!

2. Chipotle Cholula.
This stuff blows me away. Chipotle has been a real buzz word in the states for a while and it seems like you can get chipotle anything…. but not many people know about chipotle peppers/sauces in NZ. My friend found this stuff in a supermarket in wellington (nz) hidden behind some kaitaia fire (NZ’s BEST hot sauce). We were eating felafel kebabs and I had to have this stuff on every bite. SO GOOD!

So now that we’ve got you all excited, here comes the best part. They’re on tour, and they’re playing in San Diego on the 13th at the Loft at UCSD. You should really come by if you get the chance, it promises to be something special.

There’s nothing more refreshing then seeing good innovative design in an industry not known for its creativity really. That industry I’m talking about is condoms and more specifically, Durex condoms. Durex just unleashed their new ad campaign and much to our pleasant surprise, it’s centered entirely around typography and, well, you know.

Now I’m a sucker for anything that has a Millennium Falcon in it, but this manipulation photography by Fred Perrot is really quite exceptional. I can’t imagine how in the world he does it, but it’s incredibly clever to say the least. [via Looks Like Good Design]