In Brazil, there are over 6.5 million people with visual impairment, with around 500,000 being blind, per data from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE)! For greater inclusion, personalized products are essential, with Braille printing standing out.
Braille printing ensures accessibility and inclusion for visually impaired individuals in the workforce, schools, and other social environments.
Through this tactile writing system, blind or low-vision individuals gain access to written information, significantly expanding their opportunities.
Learn more about this inclusive market segment and find out why it is so crucial for people with visual disabilities.
What is Braille printing
In 2021, the Brazilian Senate unanimously approved the Proposal of Constitutional Amendment (PEC) no. 19/2014, amending the Brazilian Constitution to include the right to accessibility and mobility among the individual and collective rights.
In this scenario, Braille plays a crucial role! For blind people, the ability to read and write in Braille is an extremely valuable tool. It opens doors to knowledge and independence,
allowing access to crucial information and enabling effective communication.
What is actually Braille printing?
Braille printing refers to creating raised dots on paper using presses or resin-based printing.
Presses can be made with dies (aluminum, plastic) or computer printers.
This technique allows Braille printing on various products, from booklets to certificates and diplomas.
Additionally, companies, businesses, and educational institutions that adopt Braille accessibility demonstrate their commitment to diversity and equality, strengthening inclusion.
Why is Braille printing necessary?
Braille printing is essential for ensuring inclusion and autonomy for visually impaired individuals.
Through this tactile writing system, blind or low-vision individuals gain:
- Autonomy read books, magazines, documents, statements, and other printed materials without relying on others for information;
- It supports learning for children and adults with visual impairments, ensuring access to educational content;
- It allows visually impaired individuals to actively participate in society, accessing information on various topics such as culture, politics, and science;
- It facilitates access to the job market by enabling the reading of documents, contracts, and other work-related materials;
- It helps preserve culture and historical heritage by making literary works, historical documents, and other important materials accessible to visually impaired individuals.
Possibilities for Braille printing
In the pursuit of a more inclusive world, many printing companies emphasize their commitment to promoting accessibility, recognizing Braille as a fundamental bridge for the professional and personal fulfillment of visually impaired individuals.
There are various niches within Braille printing, including:
- Gifts and souvenirs: Creating personalized Braille business cards, invitations, birthday cards, event memorabilia, and other custom gifts;
- Everyday Products: keychains, planners, coasters, mugs, and other items personalized in Braille for daily use;
- Decorative Items: Frames, plaques, sculptures, and other decorative objects, when customized in Braille, enhance both residential and commercial environments for the blind.
- Children’s products: Braille literacy is the only way to literate a blind child. Educational toys, children's books, games, and other Braille products are crucial for the development of blind children.
- Promotional Products: Offering Braille-printed promotional items is another way for companies and organizations to support inclusion.
In other words, creating diverse Braille materials is a way to enhance access to information, promoting inclusion and autonomy for everyone.
How to master Braille printing technology
Mastering Braille printing technology involves a set of skills and knowledge beyond simply operating a machine.
It requires study, practice, and a deep understanding of the Braille system and the needs of visually impaired people.
Here are some steps to get started:
Learn about the Braille system
Understand the origins and development of Braille, its basic principles, and its historical importance.
Learn the structure of Braille cells, their dots, and combinations representing letters, numbers, and punctuation marks.
Use the best equipment
Nowadays, there are several types of Braille printer, each having unique characteristics and features.
Familiarize yourself with the various types of Braille printers available, their features, and which models are best suited for your niche.
Also, learn about Braille software, such as text editors and file conversion programs, which are essential for product customization.
Master printing techniques
Learn how to format Braille texts, including the use of bold, italic, and other graphic features. Organize content clearly and efficiently to facilitate reading for visually impaired individuals.
For educational and corporate needs, understand techniques for printing Braille graphics and tables using raised lines and special symbols.
Where to acquire more knowledge?
To serve the market niches for visually impaired individuals, continuous learning is essential.
Consider looking for Braille printing courses in:
- Associations for the blind: Contact associations for the blind, such as ONCB, Associação Filantrópica de Proteção aos Cegos and ADEVA. They may offer courses and workshops or suggest institutions that provide such services.
- Education institutions: Some universities and technical schools offer training programs for Braille teachers.
- Specialized companies: Companies producing equipment and materials for visually impaired people may offer training and technical support.
In conclusion, mastering Braille printing technology requires dedication and practice.
By committing to this learning process, you will contribute to the inclusion and development of visually impaired individuals through Braille printing.
