We can pretty much say without question that multi-touch technology is pretty neat, what with the associated improvements to usability and general intuitiveness of such an interface. Now what if I say that you could have your very own multi-touch pad with minimal outlay and a little bit of time? The guys over at Hackmod have put together such a device using common materials: A webcam, a cardboard box and a piece of glass. With a little bit of help from the right software, the pad appears to be about as effective as those on existing products although occupies considerably more real estate on your desk. The video explains in basic terms how to set one up yourself and you can find a bit more detail over at Instructables. Shrink it down a little and build it into your desk surface and maybe it would be viable for everyday use?