Tactile Compass for Math and Art
by American Printing House for the Blind
Last verified June 15, 2026 · classified May 23, 2026
What it is
Summary
AI-generated from vendor-published content · May 23, 2026
This is a modified compass designed to draw raised-line circles that students with visual impairments can perceive by touch — useful in both math (geometry) and art contexts. Rather than leaving an ink mark, it works with swell-touch or raised-line paper to produce a tactile output. It's a complete, ready-to-use tool: no software, no setup, just load it with the appropriate drawing implement and start working. Students who need to independently produce circle shapes — for geometric constructions, diagrams, or creative work — can do so without relying on a sighted peer or teacher to create tactile graphics for them. It's designed for swell paper or similar tactile drawing media, so you'll need compatible paper and access to a fuser or embossing surface to get the tactile output; the compass alone doesn't create the raised line.
Quick Facts Catalog facts · auto-generated
- AT Act lending
- Out of pocket
- School district
- Vocational rehab
What Setup Looks Like
- Out of the box
- Load the compass with a tactile-compatible stylus or marking tip.
- Use on swell-touch paper and run through a fuser to raise the line, or use directly with raised-line drawing film.
Getting it
Try Before You Buy
Devices like this are often available to borrow through your state's AT Act program — typically free or low-cost — so you can try it before buying or pursuing funding.
Where to Get It
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How to Fund This
Equipment like this is often pursued through official state programs. These are common starting points — each program decides its own eligibility and what it covers, so the first step is always a phone call.
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Sources & fine print
Vendor facts (name, price, platforms, vendor link) sourced from American Printing House for the Blind — view on vendor site; last verified June 15, 2026.
Classification & description AI-generated from vendor-published content on May 23, 2026 · confidence: high. Vendor specs may lag; verify before relying on details in a clinical or funding artifact.