Low Vision: What to Consider
Choosing large-print books is personal. The right format depends on the reader, the task, the lighting and the type of page they find easiest to use. Here are the practical factors we think about when designing Clarence Edgehill large-print books: type size, contrast, paper, glare, letter shapes and layout.
Font size
Bigger type reduces strain for many readers, but the right size is personal. What feels comfortable can vary a lot from person to person.
RNIB describes large print as generally 16–18 pt, with giant print anything larger than that. Clarence Edgehill large-print word search books go much bigger, using puzzle type from 50 pt to 100 pt depending on the title. Our large-print log books and notebooks use 18 pt text.
That’s why we use fixed, clearly defined sizes rather than assuming one size fits everyone.
Contrast
Contrast can matter as much as size. Large type is less useful if the print is pale, grey, low-contrast or placed on a busy background.
For printed books, dark ink on a light background is usually the clearest option. RNIB advises that text should not be reproduced as a low-percentage tint on white, cream or pastel backgrounds because it can become difficult to read.
Paper and glare
Paper can also affect readability. Glossy or coated paper can reflect light, which may create glare under some lighting conditions.
For that reason, matte or uncoated paper is often easier to read than shiny paper. It helps keep the page clear without adding reflections that compete with the text.
Typeface and letter shapes
Point size is not the whole story. The shape of the letters matters too.
In our word search books, we use a typeface with clearly distinct characters. For example, the uppercase I is visibly different from the lowercase l. This matters in word searches, where readers are scanning individual letters across rows, columns and diagonals.
Layout
A page can be large-print and still feel difficult if it is crowded. Spacing, margins and simple page structure all affect how easy the page is to use.
The American Council of the Blind notes that the right mix of spacing, font size, style and contrast can improve readability for low-vision readers.
Our large-print puzzle books are designed around oversized grids, clear word lists and simple layouts, so the page is easier to approach.
Everyone’s needs are different
Some readers prefer very large type. Others may find that lighting, contrast, paper texture or page layout makes just as much difference.
That’s why Clarence Edgehill offers a range of defined sizes instead of a single “large print” option. The aim is to make the choice clearer, so readers can find the format that suits them best.
Common questions
Does bigger type always mean easier reading?
For many people, bigger type helps, but everyone’s eyes are different.
Very large type can make letters easier to see, but it can also mean fewer letters fit on a page. That is why Clarence Edgehill offers fixed sizes from 50 pt to 100 pt across the large-print word search range, rather than assuming one size fits everyone.
Why does contrast matter?
Large type still needs to be clear. Pale ink, grey text, low contrast or busy backgrounds can make a page harder to read, even when the type is big.
Why does paper type matter?
Glossy, coated paper can reflect light and create glare, which may make text harder to read regardless of size.
Matte or uncoated paper helps reduce reflections and keeps the page easier to read in more lighting conditions.
Why does the typeface matter?
Some letters can look similar in certain typefaces. In a word search, that can make scanning harder.
Our puzzle books use distinct letterforms so characters such as uppercase I and lowercase l are easier to tell apart.
What if I’m not sure what size I need?
Compare a few sizes side by side where possible. The size comparison tool on our homepage is designed to help with exactly that.
For individual advice about a specific eye condition, it may also be worth speaking to an optometrist or low vision specialist.