Swell paper (microcapsule paper) from Harpo and Zychem in A4 and A3, plus the Harpo PIAF heater (swell form machine). With swell paper you can make tactile graphics – maps, diagrams and drawings that can be read by touch. We sell to businesses and public institutions in Denmark. Prices exclude VAT.
How swell paper works
The image is drawn, printed or copied in black on the paper. When the sheet passes through a heater, the black lines and areas rise while the rest of the sheet stays flat. The black must contain carbon, which the toner in most laser printers and copiers does; with an inkjet printer, use true black. Colours do not rise, so they can be used for sighted and partially sighted readers on the same sheet.
Harpo or Zychem?
Both are microcapsule papers and work in the PIAF. The differences are small:
| Feature | Harpo Tangible Magic Paper | Zychem Swell Touch |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Harpo, Poland | Zychem Ltd, England |
| Heater | Made for PIAF, works in others too | PIAF, Swell Form and others |
| Special | Rises at low temperature, can be run through several times | 195 g/m², up to 3 passes |
| Sizes | A4 and A3, 100 sheets | A4 and A3, 100 sheets |
The heat often needs a small adjustment when you change brand. With 100 sheets per pack, an A4 sheet costs about DKK 6–6.50 excl. VAT – see the current price on the product page.
- Harpo swell paper A4 and Harpo swell paper A3
- Zychem swell paper A4 and Zychem swell paper A3
- Harpo PIAF – heater for paper up to A3
What is swell paper used for?
Tactile maps, floor plans for orientation, graphs, geometry and science in teaching, tactile drawings in teaching materials and exams, and simple overviews at work. Swell paper is used by schools, resource centres, municipalities, libraries and workplaces.
Tips on printing, heat and drawings: How to make tactile graphics on swell paper. Free teaching materials: Tactile graphics in teaching. How to design good tactile drawings: 10 tips for tactile drawings.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between swell paper and a braille embosser?
Swell paper gives raised lines and areas from an ordinary drawing or print and is good for illustrations. A braille embosser embosses braille and graphics with dots. Many users have both.
Which heater do we need?
The paper must pass through a swell paper heater, such as the Harpo PIAF or Zychem Swell Form. Both our papers work in the PIAF.
How long does the paper keep?
Store the paper flat in its original packaging. Zychem recommends using the paper within 12 months.
Can we get a quote?
Yes. Write to info@inva.store, for example if you need a quote for a tender or a grant.
Buying and delivery
- We sell to businesses and public institutions in Denmark.
- Danish public customers can order with an EAN number. Businesses pay in advance.
- Delivery is free in Denmark. Minimum order DKK 500 excl. VAT.