Also Known As: Model Making,
Technologies: SmellyVision; Tactile Colour
Principles: Various materials are glued together to form a tactile
graphic, usually a one-off, but can be very durable depending
on the materials used.
What are Craft Tactile Graphics?
Tactile graphics can be made up from a variety of materials and
the title craft graphics is designed to encompass all those which
do not fit in the previous categories.
Almost anything can be used to make craft graphics, from wood
to wallpaper. There are also specialist materials which can help
to make more interesting craft images such as SmellyVision and
Tactile Colour.
SmellyVision is a series of coloured paper sheets which have
been impregnated with scratch and sniff odours. Each colour has
an associated odour e.g. Red = Strawberry, which can be great
fun and a good learning tool for children.
Tactile Colour is a range of products based upon textures denoting
colour. Coloured sticky backed sheets carrying the various textures
can be used to make colourful images which can then be used by
blind or partially sighted people, and are especially liked by
children.
Where to buy materials and equipment
A vast amount of craft tactile graphics are made up from waste
items such as small boxes, card, pieces of material and bits of
string.
Most DIY or hardware stores will stock items which could be of
use, such as glue, string and wood.
SmellyVision is available from Zychem Ltd.
Tactile Colour is available from Tactile Colour ltd.
Links to Suppliers Details
Tricks of the Trade
DIY stores often give away sample sheets of wallpaper which can
be used to provide textured areas.
Strong Points
Can be very durable depending on materials used.
Potentially very cheap to make.
Weak Points
When using Tactile Colour or SmellyVision it can take a lot of
practice for a blind person to learn the different textures or
smells associated with the colours.
Back to Making Tactile Graphics
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