• How to check for existing copies in this format

Guidelines

1. Use an 18 point size typeface.

2. X height (height of the lower case x) and T-height (height of the bottom of the crossbar on the lower-case letter t) of at least 4 mm.

3. Large print headings and subheadings should be larger and bolder than regular large print text.

4. A ‘sans serif’ font is preferred (eg. Arial or Verdana)         

5. Use a 1.25 line space between lines (or larger if needed to avoid crowding).

6. Avoid italics.

7. Begin all text at the left margin – do not use indentations to delineate paragraphs.

8. Paragraphs should use margins around 2.5 cm with left justification only (no right justification).

9. Avoid use of hyphens at the right margin.

10. Avoid use of columns.

11. Use standard size paper.

12. Large print should not be used over a background design or other graphical material.

13. Large print should appear black on white, ivory, cream or yellow paper with a dull finish to reduce glare.  Use a light yellow paper with black print for the most readable copy.

14. Large print users should have access to graphics that are not only enlarged, but maintain the same contrast, clarity, and access to appropriate colouration as those prepared for their sighted peers.

15. Large print materials that are highly graphical in nature, such as maps, graphs, and charts, should also adhere to type size, font, and other large print guidelines.

16. When colour is not possible, high-quality, black line drawings are preferred over gray scale.

17. Books weigh no more than approximately 900grams.

18. No larger than 23 cm x 30 cm x 6 cm – note: smaller than A3.

Large Print – High Contrast Stickers for Computer Keys

These products are mentioned as many people do not know about them, and if they do, it can be hard to find a supplier.

Alternative Keyboards and Accessories

Rehabilitation Engineering

http://www.regencypark.org.au/productlist.asp?p=247&id=23&start=1

Stickers sets from around $20

Keyboard labels

Spectronics

http://www.spectronicsinoz.com/browse.asp?cat=15809

A range of keyboard labels from $25.

More information

Large Print Guidelines

Accessible Information Solutions

http://www.nils.org.au/ais/print/resources/lp_guidelines.html

This agency specialises in preparation of materials in a range of accessible formats.

Large Print: Guidelines for Optimal Readability

The American Printing House for the Blind (APH)

www.aph.org/edresearch/lpguide.htm

These guidelines are based on research into usability of large print materials for people with low vision.

User-Friendly Materials and Alternate Formats

National Center for the Dissemination of Disability Research, http://www.ncddr.org/du/products/ufm/ufm.html

This guide looks at a range of alternative formats and gives useful, practical tips on converting materials.

For more important information on converting materials, go to:

What to consider when converting materials in accessible formats (CD)