Guide to Creating Effective Tactile Graphics
This guide provides a high-level overview of key principles for designing tactile graphics that are clear, accessible, and usable for individuals with visual impairments. It focuses on practical best practices rather than detailed, standardized specifications.
Designing Tactile Graphics According to Standards
If your goal is to produce tactile graphics that meet professional or educational standards—such as for standardized testing or official publications—it is important to consult the detailed guidelines published by recognized authorities:
Notable Tactile Graphics Standards and Resources:
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Braille Authority of North America (BANA)
BANA Guidelines and Standards for Tactile Graphics
A comprehensive, widely adopted standard for producing tactile graphics in the United States. -
APH (American Printing House for the Blind)
APH Tactile Graphics Image Library
APH also provides training resources and reference materials on tactile graphic production. -
UK Association for Accessible Formats (UKAAF)
UKAAF Guidelines
Standards for accessible formats including tactile diagrams in the UK. -
Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB)
CNIB Clear Print and Tactile Graphics Resources
While CNIB does not publish a single standard, they offer best practices and work with educational authorities. -
ICEB (International Council on English Braille)
ICEB Resources
Promotes the development and standardization of braille-related materials globally.
While these organizations provide essential guidance for standardized tactile graphics, the recommendations below are intended as a practical, non-standard guide to help you create tactile graphics for personal or community use.
By sharing your creations with the Tactile Library community, you contribute to a growing collection of free, user-generated tactile graphics that support educators, students, and makers.
Basic Tactile Graphics Guidelines
The following are non-standard recommendations designed to help ensure your tactile graphics are effective and accessible for individuals with visual impairments.
Key Principles of Tactile Graphic Design
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Simplify the design – Remove unnecessary details and decorative elements. Focus on essential shapes, lines, and symbols.
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Use high-contrast line weights – Bold, thick lines are easier to detect by touch. Ensure important elements stand out clearly.
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Avoid overlapping elements – Keep graphics uncluttered. Separate key components and provide space between objects for better readability.
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Limit the use of text – Keep labels minimal, and consider using braille or a separate key to explain content. Note that braille may not conform to BANA or similar standards.
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Ensure proper scaling – Elements should be sized for tactile recognition. Features that are too small or too large can be difficult to distinguish by touch.
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Use distinct textures and patterns – Different textures or patterns help differentiate objects and surfaces.
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Maintain consistent orientation – Position elements logically, following conventional understanding (e.g., North at the top on maps).
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Test for tactile readability – Before finalizing, run your fingers over a printed version. Whenever possible, get feedback from a blind or visually impaired user.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Including excessive visual detail – Complex visuals do not translate well to tactile form.
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Relying on color differences – Tactile users cannot perceive color; use textures or patterns instead, keeping them limited and distinct.
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Using too many symbols – Keep symbols simple and standardized for easier recognition.
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Omitting a title or key – A brief title or key helps users understand the purpose of the graphic.
By following these guidelines and contributing to the free Tactile Library, you help create graphics that are truly usable and beneficial for individuals who rely on touch to learn and explore.