Need advice on modifying Dell XPS L521X's stupid touchpad.

Just got a Dell XPS 15 (L521X). The touchpad texture is that slightly rubbery plastic. The surrounding area is the same material. There is almost no physical transition so it is difficult to determine if my finger is on the pad or where on the pad. Also, it is all matte black, so the touchpad basically disappears in anything but bright, direct light.

The buttons are under the touchpad and have no separate definition either. And the top of the buttons respond to touchpad movements! So annoying. Summing up what I would love to do:

1. Create a border around the pad that my finger and thumb can feel.
2. Cover the touchpad area with a different material, less rubbery (maybe cell phone protective cover material?).
3. Cover the buttons area with something that will NOT transfer movement signals to the touchpad area beneath.

Thanks for any input.