Large Print

Large Print is a page-layout and printing system using enlarged type, which makes it possible for people with low vision who still have a reasonable level of residual eyesight to read a text. It is a “recent” system, as it is linked to the spread of computer systems and word-processing programs that provide many text formatting and layout functions.

The text is laid out and supplemented with images, drawings, styles, and anything else needed to make it as close as possible to the original text. Unlike Braille—which is the same for all blind people—Large Print is adapted and customised according to the individual visual needs of each person with low vision.

As a result, the same text may have multiple Large Print versions, differing in font size, use of colour, line spacing, and so on.

The Stamperia generally produces texts ranging from 18-point type up to 48-point type. Normally, the instructions on the most suitable print size for each individual and all other characteristics of the text to be produced are provided by an ophthalmologist or an orthoptist.

Once the formatting features have been established, the text is processed and laid out according to the requested indications; for example, tables and charts are rebuilt, and colours and backgrounds that are perceivable for the person with low vision are applied, in order to produce a personalised text tailored to the needs of the individual user.

Not all images in the original published text can be processed and therefore adapted for a person with low vision; consequently, only sharp images that are strictly necessary for understanding the text are selected, and photo-editing operations are performed on them to improve perception for the user.

The texts are then laid out and printed in A4 format (for sizes 18 to 30) and B4 format (from 30 to 48); some particularly large charts, images, and tables are printed in A3 format. All texts, unless otherwise requested by the user, are printed in colour and double-sided.

Standard text, 12-point type

 Large Print text, 18-point type

 Large Print text, 24-point type

 Large Print text, 30-point type

 Large Print text, 36-point type

 Large Print text, 42-point type

 Large Print text, 48-point type