WASHINGTON, DC - - The Worldwide Printing Thermographers Association has announced the winners of their “Ultimate Thermography Challenge,” a national design contest open to graphic designers and design students. The challenge was to create an original campaign showcasing thermography (raised printing). By using thermography, designers can add dimension and a distinct, stylish texture to designs. It also provides a unique look and feel. First place was awarded to Lauren Clark of Bradenton, Florida for her design titled “Can You Feel It?” The design features a photograph of an apple with water droplets. Clear thermography applied to a four-color process makes the droplets and the headline appear dimensional. The second place design, “Surface,” was created by Brian Kay from Severna Park, Maryland. The design features a photograph of a waffle on a plate, with realistic looking syrup created by using an overprint of clear, satin-finish thermography over a four-color process. The third place winner, “Thermography,” was designed by Maria del Valle of San Juan, Puerto Rico. She used glow-in-the-dark thermography on two different color backgrounds to make the colors “stand out.” To view the winning designs log on to www.thermographers.org. The top three winners, who all attend the Savannah College of Art and Design, will receive recognition on the WPT web page, a news release and an article in the WPT newsletter plus: · 1st place - - $500 (sponsored by Thomas/Boyd Communications) · 2nd place - - Personalized Thermographed Stationery Package (sponsored by Checkerboard, Ltd.) · 3rd place - - Cherry Desk Cabinet and Stationery (sponsored by Crane & Co.) The large cherry desk cabinet with special interior lift out tray holds Ecruwhite Monarch sheets and matching envelopes.