A tactile illusion is an illusion that affects the sense of touch. Some tactile illusions require active touch (e.g., movement of the fingers or hands), whereas others can be evoked passively (e.g., with external stimuli that press against the skin). In recent years, a growing interest among perceptual researchers has led to the discovery of new tactile illusions and to the celebration of tactile illusions in the popular science press. Some tactile illusions are analogous to visual and auditory illusions, suggesting that these sensory systems may process information in similar ways; other tactile illusions don't have obvious visual or auditory analogs.

Passive tactile spatiotemporal illusions

Several tactile illusions are caused by dynamic stimulus sequences that press against the stationary skin surface.

Tactile adaptation illusions

Many illusions in vision are caused by adaptation, the prolonged exposure to a previous stimulus. In such cases, the perception of a subsequent stimulus is altered. This phenomenon is sometimes referred to as a contingent after-effect. Similarly, adaptation can cause such illusions in the sense of touch.

Other tactile illusions

It is possible to simulate a string being pulled out of ones hand or knee cap. Requires two people. Touching and tracing motions in the form of star like shapes. Such as an asterisk is drawn with person 2's finger. On person 1. The. After 60 or 90 seconds. The person should pinch. The center and it feels like a string. Is being pulled from the palm, or knee.