The needs of individuals requiring Large Print format vary greatly. Large print is a format that is used by those with a range of print disabilities including older Australians with diminished vision, individuals with sight loss, those with learning disabilities or literacy difficulties.
The following guidelines have been prepared using international standards and the standards adopted by the Round Table for the Print Disabled. See also guidelines for print based materials.
Font and Paper Size
Large print font size should be at least 18 point in size. Large print documents should be no larger in dimension than 9" x 12" x 2 1/4 "
Bold, Underline and Italics
Bold and underlining should be used to highlight specific sections in the text such as headings, quotations or crucial areas which need identifying. Italics should not be used in any circumstances as this distorts the type face making information potentially difficult to read.
Font Type
It is a good idea to avoid complicated, decorative fonts and instead use fonts with easily recognised characters. Some people find fonts such as Arial easier to read. Serifs add another dimension to the print, particularly when it is small. Sans serifs fonts, Helvetica, Swiss and Arial are generally acceptable if there is sufficient contrast.
Line Spacing
Line spacing within the print that allows spacing between lines of print of at least one and a quarter spaces.
Headings
Large print headings and subheadings should be larger and bolder than regular large print text. Bold or underline can be used in these instances, italics should not be used.
Justification
Paragraphs in large print should be block style and use 1" margins. The left margin should be justified and the right hand margin should not be justified; there should be no indentations to delineate paragraphs.
Columns and Divided Words
Where possible, columns and divided words should be avoided.
Paper/Stock
Large print should appear black on white, ivory, cream or yellow paper with a dull finish so as not to promote glare.
Graphics
Large print should not be used over a background design or other graphical material. Large print users should have access to graphics that are not only enlarged, but maintain the same contrast, clarity, and access to appropriate coloration as those prepared for their sighted peers.
Large print materials that are highly graphical in nature, such as maps, graphs and charts, should also adhere to type size, font and other large print guidelines. When color is not possible, high-quality, black line drawings are preferred over gray scale.
Adapted from: