Tactile images are an important mode of information for the blind and low vision community but many of the common methods have high acquisition and material costs. This design inquiry looks at the use of a Cricut cutting machine to layer cardstock for creating tangible pictures and coloring pages. This report discusses the development of the technique followed by the corresponding production considerations, design iterations, pilot feedback, and limitations. We believe that in certain contexts this technique could be a viable method for conveying tactile information, especially in the context of early learning activities where practice is required for gaining life-long tactile graphicacy skills that can translate to reading maps and information graphics later in life. Additionally, the low acquisition cost of this method has value to parents and educators of blind and low vision children as a cheap DIY way to make tactile content.

Tactile images are an important mode of information for the blind and low vision community but many of the common methods have high acquisition and material costs. This design inquiry looks at the use of a Cricut cutting machine to layer cardstock for creating tangible pictures and coloring pages. This report discusses the development of the technique followed by the corresponding production considerations, design iterations, pilot feedback, and limitations. We believe that in certain contexts this technique could be a viable method for conveying tactile information, especially in the context of early learning activities where practice is required for gaining life-long tactile graphicacy skills that can translate to reading maps and information graphics later in life. Additionally, the low acquisition cost of this method has value to parents and educators of blind and low vision children as a cheap DIY way to make tactile content.

Tactile media are important resources for people who are blind or have low vision (BLV) to access visual or graphical information as well as to develop tactile acuity. In this paper we present findings from a social learning design that was guided by the question, "What are the factors or issues that impact the tactile media consumption and production practices of BLV and other invested stakeholders?" From data collected during three Tactile Arts and Graphics Symposia-that gathered (N=64) BLV and sighted practitioners, researchers, and educators invested making information and experiences accessible through touch-we identified 34 issues that fall under four problems of practice, that impact tactile media practices. Based on these four problems of practice (and 34 underlying issues), we share recommendations to support the development of socio-technical systems that improve tactile access to information and full inclusion of people who are BLV in tactile media consumption and production.