It is important that Braille on adapted signage feel well integrated. If Braille seems “tacked on” or otherwise negatively impacts the look of the piece, then it can been seen to have a stigmatising effect on either the space or other disability aids. In this vein I choose to adapt an existing university sign rather than create a completely original one, showcasing the UV print methods potential to work in tandem with existing graphics.
I used white ink because it highly contrasts with the blue and because it mimics the signs existing lettering. We also raised the height significantly by creating a puddling effect using more emboss layers, something that we had seen used on other textural print work.
This is my most successful sample to date and has become the bedrock of my UV research. It has survived near constant use and excessive handling, indeed it has even been brought to multiple conferences. Since it hasn’t been damaged by use, age, cleaning or transport, I am confident in saying that this technique is fairly durable when applied to metal signage. To date this sample has survived over a year without chipping, loss of dots or any noticeable wear.
