Guide
Tips for creating raised line images using tactile graphics machine (PIAF or Swell)
Are you creating quick tactile graphics to build concepts and understanding for your students? Here are some quick tips!
Every TSVI should have access to a tactile graphics machine (a.k.a. fuser or “toaster”) and should be using this tool on a daily basis!
A tactile graphic machine, such as the PIAF or Swell machine, is a simple and fast way of creating stunning tactile images for students who are blind or low vision. The raised line drawings are printed on special paper called capsule or swell page. The heat in the machine causes the ink in the lines to swell, creating raised line images. Learn more about tactile graphic machines in the post, Picture in a Flash: A tactile image is worth a thousand words.
In response to recent questions, here are thoughts on capsule paper usage from a listserv discussion:
- Capsule paper only works when an image printed on it uses carbon based toner or ink. The use of carbon based toner or ink is critical. Capsule paper works because carbon based ink absorbs infrared light and gets hot. The material in the capsules expands causing raised images.
- Absolutely always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when printing on capsule paper.
- Many inkjet printers no longer use carbon in their ink and cannot work with capsule paper.
- Many of the larger, commercial laser printer/copiers (often used in schools or businesses) will use a toner that is all carbon, which works better than the smaller, personal printers.
- One brand of capsule paper that can be printed on with a laser printer is SwellTouch® from American Thermoform. (Recommended by several people.)
- When using a laser printer or copier, several people suggested using the manual feed and print one page at a time so printer performance can be monitored. A hot printer or copier can cause capsule paper to swell in the machine which can damage a printer.
- Setting a printer to use heavy paper will be useful.
Tactile graphic library on Paths to Technology
Looking for available images created for tactile graphic machines? Paths to Technology a a tactile graphic library full of teacher-created images. Most of these images have related posts with activities/lessons using these images. Have you created an image or even better, an image and an associated activity? Please share your teacher-created resources with us at [email protected]. Take advantage of this resource! Tactile Graphics Library on Paths to Technology
Resource
- Creating Tactile Graphic Images Part 3: Tips for embossing (This is one post in a series that includes how to create tactile graphic images.)
- Early elementary: Tactile pictures and drawing, engaging students in literacy activities (This post discusses providing tactile graphic machine images for students as well as students creating tactile graphic images as part of reading literacy.)
By Diane Brauner
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