Braille is produced through a combination of methods, depending on the application. It may be written manually using tools such as a slate and stylus or a braille typewriter, or produced using braille embossers for documents and books.
In environments where multiple copies are required, production braille follows a structured process designed to deliver consistent, repeatable output at scale—often alongside tactile graphics to create fully accessible materials.
Other Ways Braille Is Created
Manual methods, including slate and stylus or braille typewriters such as the Perkins Brailler, are commonly used for learning, note-taking, and everyday writing.
Production methods are used when consistent, repeatable output is required, including in schools, transcription centers, and organizations producing accessible materials.
Step 1: Preparing the Content
Production begins with a digital file. Text is translated into braille using specialized software that converts written characters into braille format.
For complex materials such as textbooks or manuals, formatting is critical. Spacing, layout, and structure must be prepared to ensure the final output is readable.
Step 2: Embossing Braille
Once prepared, the file is produced using a braille embosser. Braille embossers create raised dots directly on braille paper, forming readable text.
In higher-volume environments, production braille embossers are used to produce books, documents, and other materials at scale with consistent output.
Output quality depends on both the braille embosser and the paper. Paper designed specifically for braille ensures consistent dot formation and long-term durability.
Step 3: Producing Tactile Graphics
Braille text alone is not sufficient for all content. Diagrams, maps, charts, and illustrations require tactile graphics to convey visual information through touch.
These graphics are produced using specialized materials and processes. One common approach uses swell technology, where printed graphics are applied to swell paper and processed through a swell machine to raise the printed areas.
Tactile graphics are essential for subjects such as science, math, and geography, where visual information must be translated into a tactile format.
Step 4: Thermoforming for Tactile Graphics and Braille Duplication
When multiple copies are required, thermoforming is used to duplicate a master containing braille and/or tactile graphics.
A sheet of Brailon® is placed over the master, and heat is applied to form the material over the raised surfaces. The result is a durable, accurate duplicate that can be reproduced consistently.
Thermoforming is particularly effective for tactile graphics, allowing detailed diagrams, maps, and illustrations to be replicated clearly and consistently.
It is also used where durability is required. Brailon® is longer-lasting than paper, resistant to wear, and can be handled or cleaned without degrading the tactile content.
This process is commonly used for:
- Tactile maps and diagrams
- Educational materials
- Signage and wayfinding
- Durable braille documents
Step 5: Materials Matter
Materials play a critical role at every stage of braille production.
Braille paper must hold consistent, well-formed dots without breaking or flattening. Brailon® is used in thermoforming to create durable tactile copies. Tactile graphics require specialized materials to produce clear, readable detail.
Using the correct materials ensures consistent quality, reliable performance, and long-lasting results.
Final Thoughts
Braille production is not a single process—it is a coordinated system of methods working together to produce accessible information.
From embossing to tactile graphics and duplication, each step serves a specific role. When executed correctly, these processes provide consistent, reliable access to information for individuals who read through touch.