What Are Tactile Graphics?

Tactile graphics use raised lines, shapes, and textures to communicate information through touch. A raised outline can show the shape of an object, different textures can distinguish areas on a map, and lines and labels can explain relationships in a chart or diagram.

For example, a tactile map can show a room’s layout, a graph can communicate changes in data, and a science diagram can explain the parts of a plant. Braille labels, a key, or an accompanying explanation help readers identify what each element represents.

An effective tactile graphic simplifies the original image to preserve its essential information. It should give readers enough space to distinguish features by touch, with consistent symbols and textures. Simply raising every detail of a visual image does not necessarily make it understandable.

For a complete guide on how tactile graphics are created and used, visit our Tactile Graphics Resources hub.

How Tactile Graphics Work

Tactile graphics translate visual information into physical textures that can be explored through touch. Instead of relying on sight, users interpret shapes, lines, and spatial relationships using their hands.

These graphics can represent a wide range of information, including diagrams, maps, charts, and illustrations. By converting visual content into raised formats, tactile graphics make complex concepts more accessible for individuals who are blind or visually impaired.

How Are Tactile Graphics Created?

There are several methods used to produce tactile graphics, each suited to different needs.

Swell Paper

Swell paper is one of the most widely used methods for producing tactile graphics. It uses heat-reactive microcapsule paper that expands when printed with black ink and exposed to heat.

• Fast production
• High detail accuracy
• On-demand creation
• Flexible workflow

Learn more about swell paper.

Braille Embossers / Braille Printers

Embossers/printers create braille dots on paper

• Commonly used for braille
• Suitable for simple graphics
• Limited detail
• Interpreting graphics made of braille dots can be hard

Thermoform Machines / Brailon Duplicators

Thermoforming uses heat and masters/molds to create durable tactile graphics.

• Ideal for high-volume production
• Requires masters/molds (the more creative the better!)
• Less flexible
• Graphics are extremely durable

Other Methods for Creating Tactile Graphics

While professional tools like swell paper and swell machines, embossers, and thermoforming are widely used, there are many other ways to create tactile graphics—especially in classroom and DIY settings.

Educators and creators often use simple, hands-on materials such as yarn, glue, sand, cardboard, or textured fabrics to build tactile graphics manually. These approaches can be effective for quick demonstrations, customized lessons, or creative projects where flexibility is important.

The possibilities are virtually endless, and tactile graphics can be adapted using whatever materials are available.

Why Tactile Graphics Are Important

Tactile graphics make visual information accessible through touch, supporting education, navigation, and independence.

They are especially important in:

• Education (STEM, diagrams, maps)
• Orientation and mobility
• Workplace training
• Public accessibility

Best Practices for Tactile Graphics Design

Effective tactile graphics require thoughtful design.

• Keep designs simple and clear
• Use consistent spacing
• Avoid unnecessary detail
• Maintain clear structure
• Use recognizable symbols

For more guidance on preparing clear, readable designs, see our tactile graphics best practices.

Choosing the Right Method

Different methods serve different needs:

• Swell paper: Fast, detailed, and flexible—ideal for classroom use and on-demand tactile graphics
• Embossing: Best for braille and precise tactile text applications
• Thermoforming: The EZ-Form is great for high-volume production and durable materials
• Manual / DIY methods: Materials such as yarn, glue, sand, cardboard, or textured surfaces can be used to create custom tactile graphics for demonstrations and creative learning

For many applications, swell paper offers the best balance of speed, detail, and ease of use. However, combining different methods can provide the most effective results depending on the environment and learning objectives.

Zychem and Tactile Graphics

Zychem has been a leader in tactile graphics production since 1991, manufacturing Swell Touch paper and both Swell Form and Swell Form Pro machines in-house.

This allows consistent performance, reliable output, and high-quality tactile graphics production.

To create tactile graphics with swell paper, choose your paper, prepare the design, and process the sheet through a compatible machine.

• Swell Touch paper is Zychem’s swell paper for producing raised graphics. This type of heat-sensitive paper is also known as capsule paper or microcapsule paper.
• Print or photocopy your design using compatible black ink or toner, or draw directly on the paper with Swell Touch markers. Drawing is an alternative to printing—you do not need both.
• Use the Swell Form machine for on-demand tactile graphics, or explore the Swell Form Pro machine for higher-volume production.

If you previously used ZyTex paper or a ZyFuse machine, the current product names are Swell Touch paper and Swell Form machine, respectively. Our ZyTex and ZyFuse naming guide explains the transition.

Read the Swell Touch Paper Users Guide for paper preparation, compatible drawing and printing materials, and processing guidance. For product selection and purchasing assistance, request pricing.

Conclusion

Tactile graphics are essential tools for making information accessible. With multiple production methods available, they can be adapted to different needs and environments.

Swell paper remains one of the most efficient and flexible solutions for producing tactile graphics on demand.