Crafts: Strategies for Life, Living Well with Vision Loss

Debby Smith, Rehabilitation Specialist
February 1, 2010

Working on craft projects is fun, creative and satisfying. While some people enjoy the activity working alone, others like the social aspect of working in groups. Some people have always been “crafty”; others may never have had the time or inclination to create. Crafts can be therapeutic and a source of satisfaction and pride.

People who enjoyed doing crafts before experiencing vision loss as well as those who have never done crafts can take up the activity with just a few adaptations and careful preparation. Crafts can provide a chance to learn new skills, reawaken creativity and reinforce abilities.

Organization and preparation are keys to success. When planning a project, think about the location. Is there sufficient light? Is there adequate work space?

Consider the set up. It can be helpful for anyone, but particularly for people who are visually impaired, to work in a defined area. Create boundaries by using a tray. Collect all the materials needed and arrange them in the order they will be used. Gather all the tools which will be required. If the project is likely to be messy, have paper towels or wet naps on hand. Place a trash receptacle near by.

Think about contrast. If the tray is dark and the project is dark, line the tray with light colored paper. If using white glue, place it in a dark container. Wrap bright colored tape around the handles of tools, scissor etc. so they will stand out. Always return the tools and materials to the same location so they will be easily found a second time.

If the craft project requires smaller items like beads, pins, buttons etc, place them in containers adhered to the tray or work surface with tape. Masking tape or doubled sided tape should work well. When using a ruler or yard stick, tape it to the work surface.

Using scissors can be a challenge. Hold the handle of scissors with one hand, and, while the blades are closed, carefully find the tip with the other hand. If the scissors are closed there is less chance of injury. Locate the edge of the material/paper to be cut. Open the blades and cut slowly using short strokes keeping fingers out of the way.

There are alternative tools for cutting. When cutting fabric, some people use a rotary cutter.  It is a tool with a sharp blade shaped like a wheel which rolls. It is recommended that the cutter be used in conjunction with a rotary mat so that the work surface is not damaged. The Scotch Company has made a tool called the Paper Cutter which is similar to an X-Acto Knife but the blade is not exposed.

These are just a few tips to make crafts projects accessible and enjoyable to people who are visually impaired and really, for anyone! Organization, preparation and the proper tools are key to any successful project.

Perkins Outreach Services for Ages 55 and Older, Outreach@Perkins.org, 617-972-7643.

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