1.) What is Hydrographics/Water Transfer Printing?

 

Hydrographics or Water Transfer Printing (also known as hydro dipping, hydro imaging, and hydrographic printing) is a 3D decorating process. Graphics such as carbon fiber, wood grain, camouflage, geometrical patterns are applied to decorate the items.

 

The Hydrographics process is used worldwide to decorate a variety of items, from all-terrain vehicles to very small items like cell phone cases. Films can be applied to all kind of materials including plastic, wood, fiberglass, metal, and ceramics. For the most part, if the item can be dipped in water or painted, the water transfer printing process can be applied.

 

This process utilizes a water-soluble film that contains the printed designs. Once the film dissolves and leaves the ink on the surface of the water, the item/product is ready for the hydrographic process.

 

2.) What does it cost?

 

Hydrographics/Water Transfer Printing is the most advanced cost-effective process, which overcomes problems faced by traditional printing methods, such as conversion coating, screen printing, transfer printing, and hot printing.

 

3.) Is Hydrographics/Water Transfer Printing durable?

 

The ink from the hydrographic film is very durable itself. However, a very important step of the process is a protective clear coat which needs to be applied to protect decorated items to ensure that they last for years. Clear Coating also protects the items from scratching and gives them durability.

 

4.) What types of items can be printed?

 

A wide variety of flat or 3D items and materials can be decorated with this process. (plastic, metal, wood, glass, fiberglass, ceramic, etc.)