Producers of Quality Resources

Clovernook applies the highest quality standards and principles of equal access to its work. The Clovernook difference is the inclusion of individuals who are blind or visually impaired in the development, production, and proofing of accessible materials. Our diverse team works together to develop innovative materials that foster high-quality experiences and inclusion for blind and visually impaired individuals in arts and cultural spaces. Read below for more details on each of the different types of resources we offer.

What are 3d models? 3D models are digital assets that can be printed into physical objects by a 3D printer using a thermoplastic filament. Spools of filament are fed into the printer, where it is then heated and deposited onto a plate in layers that melt onto each other to form a 3D object. Clovernook produces custom-made 3D objects, each one uniquely designed to be a quality tactile resource. Clovernook continues to innovate in design and functionality, including embedding NFC tags into select models so that corresponding audio files can be accessed simply by holding your mobile device near the 3D model.

Clovernook also produces many of its 3D models using a 3D scanner—a handheld device that can capture the dimensions and textures of any object it scans. Clovernook often uses this to create 3D replicas of artifacts like vases, sculptures, or ceramics. It’s also possible to 3D scan people, as Clovernook has created a few 3D model busts of staff members to use as fundraiser prizes. The possibilities are endless!

Tactile graphics use raised lines and shapes (typically on a sheet of paper) to represent an image. By feeling the raised images, blind and visually impaired people can experience images like maps, paintings, or drawings completely via tactile interaction. Clovernook tests each tactile graphic to ensure that the raised lines are readable for a blind or visually impaired person to successfully understand what image the lines create by touch alone. Tactile graphics are often accompanied with braille signage or audio descriptions to provide additional context. 

Most of the tactile graphics Clovernook produces are what we call Swell Touch graphics. These are made with the PIAF (Pictures In A Flash) machine. We often first digitally simplify the image that we want to print so that it’s easily understood by touch (reducing visual/tactile “clutter”). Then, we print the image with black ink onto a piece of Swell Touch paper. This is a special type of paper that contains tiny alcohol capsules inside the page. Once we run that paper through the PIAF, the heat inside the machine will make the alcohol capsules pop open and raise the paper where there is black ink. After one or two passes through the PIAF, the user will have a completed Swell Touch tactile graphic that is ready for use.