4 Tips for Designing Effective Custom Braille Signs

A hand rests on a yellow braille sign. The sign has a button next to it that the person can use to call for help.

Navigating a building can be challenging for people with a visual impairment, which is why making clear and accessible braille signs is essential. A primary goal for building managers should be choosing the right signage. To achieve this, you must learn the key elements of designing effective custom braille signs.

Choose the Right Materials for Durable and Legible Signage

Designing braille signs starts with selecting the right materials. Durable materials like acrylic, metal, or high-quality plastics will be able to withstand wear and tear. On top of that, you need a smooth material for clear and legible braille dots, so opt for something that allows for precise engraving or embossing. Remember, the longevity of these signs will reflect on the overall maintenance of your building.

Pick Elements That Enhance Readability for the Visually Impaired

General readability is important when creating braille signs. This is because not all visually impaired individuals are completely blind. Using high-contrast colors can help those with partial vision more easily distinguish text. Matte finishes are preferable as they reduce glare, which can be problematic in brightly lit areas. Additionally, using standard fonts in large, uppercase letters ensures that all text is easily readable. The layout should be simple and uncluttered, focusing on the most critical information to avoid confusion.

Reinforce Your Branding With Creative Elements

One important thing to remember when designing effective custom braille signs is that they aren’t just for those with visual impairments—they’re for everyone. That means they need to be more than just functional signs; they need to be visually appealing while properly reflecting your brand’s identity.

Incorporate your logo and brand colors in a subtle way to ensure consistency with your overall aesthetic. You can even try to find creative ways to incorporate your brand’s style with your elevator buttons with braille. However, it’s essential to balance creativity with readability—ensure that any decorative elements do not interfere with the functionality of the braille or text. Thoughtful design can make your signs both informative and visually appealing.

Comply With ADA and Other Regulations for Braille Signs

The final thing worth noting is that compliance with ADA (Americans With Disabilities Act) and other regulations is nonnegotiable when it comes to braille signage. These laws specify requirements such as character height, spacing, and the placement of braille dots. Familiarize yourself with these guidelines to ensure your signs meet all necessary standards. Noncompliance can result in penalties, but more importantly, it can hinder accessibility and safety for people with visual impairments.

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