How do you create accessible illustrations for people with disabilities?

2 How to use contrast and color

When it comes to accessibility, contrast and color play a key role. Contrast refers to the difference between the lightness and darkness of colors, while color encompasses hue, saturation, and brightness. To make illustrations more accessible, use high contrast colors for text and important details, such as black on white or white on black. Additionally, use color sparingly and strategically to highlight features, create moods, or convey information. Avoid relying solely on color to convey meaning as it can be confusing or invisible for people with color blindness. Additionally, use color combinations that are compatible and harmonious, and avoid using colors that are similar or clash. You can utilize online tools such as Color Safe or Color Oracle to test and adjust your color choices for accessibility.

3 How to use typography and layout

Typography and layout are important aspects of accessibility. Typography is the style and appearance of text, while layout is the arrangement and alignment of elements on a page. To make your illustrations more accessible, you should use clear and legible fonts that are appropriate for your audience and purpose. Avoid fonts that are too small, too fancy, or too similar to each other, as they can be difficult to read for people with low vision or dyslexia. Additionally, you should use consistent and logical layout that follows a clear hierarchy and structure. Do not use layout that is too crowded, chaotic, or inconsistent, as it can be difficult to follow for people with low vision or cognitive disabilities. You can use online tools such as WebAIM, Dyslexie Font, Gridlover, or Sketch to check and improve your font choices and create and refine your layout for accessibility.

4 How to use images and icons

Images and icons can be a great way to enhance illustrations by adding interest, clarity, or emotion. However, they can pose challenges for accessibility. To make your illustrations more accessible, you should use images and icons that are relevant, accurate, and meaningful for your content and context. Avoid using images and icons that are irrelevant, inaccurate, or ambiguous. You can use online tools such as Noun Project or Flaticon to find and customize images and icons for accessibility. Additionally, you should use alternative text and captions to describe the content and function of your images and icons. Alternative text is a short text that summarizes the main point or message of an image or icon used by screen readers to provide access for people with visual disabilities. Captions are longer texts that provide additional information or context for an image or icon, used by people who prefer or need to read rather than see. You can use online tools such as Alt Text Tester or Caption Writer to create and edit alternative text and captions for accessibility.

5 How to use feedback and testing

Feedback and testing are essential processes for making your illustrations more accessible. You should use methods that are appropriate for your goals and resources, such as surveys, interviews, focus groups, usability tests, expert reviews, audits, or checklists. Additionally, you should use feedback and testing tools that are accessible and inclusive for your participants, like SurveyMonkey or UserTesting. You can also use accessibility tools, like NVDA or VoiceOver, to simulate or support the experience of people with disabilities. By following these tips and best practices, you can create illustrations that are more readable, understandable, and engaging for people with disabilities. Not only will this help make your illustrations more accessible, but it will also enhance your fashion design skills and promote your values.