What is hydrographic printing used for?

The water transfer printing process is extensively used to decorate items that range from entire all-terrain vehicles and car dashboards to small items, such as bike helmets or other automotive trim. The process utilizes a water-soluble film that contains the printed patterns.

Is hydrographics permanent?

Hydrographics, otherwise known as Hydro dipping, is paint based printing process. Once your item is painted and hydro dipped, they are protected with an automotive grade clear coat, whilst this is a permanent change, if you ever did change your mind, you could simply paint over it.

Do I need a special printer for hydrographics?

You will want to AVOID their PIXMA line of printers, as the colors other than black are dye-based inks. The HP OfficeJet Pro printer series also uses pigment-based inks, along with the DesignJet Z6 and Z9+ printers. In addition, any of the latex printers from HP will work very well for hydrographics.

What is Hydrographic film made of?

polyvinyl alcohol
Hydrographic films are made from polyvinyl alcohol. The film is carefully placed on the water surface of a dipping tank. Once the film is hydrated, you add the activator. This liquefies the ink on the surface of the water.

How do you use Hydrographics?

Hydrographics is a process where you overlay a sheet of hydro dip film printed graphics onto an object….

1. Step 1 — Cut out a piece of film.
2. Step 2 — Apply masking tape to film.
3. Step 3 — Float film on water.
4. Step 4 — Spray film with activator.
5. Step 5 — Dip thing.

What all do I need to hydro dip?

Step-By-Step Guide to Hydro Dipping

1. Large, deep plastic container (the container will have paint on the inside after the hydro dipping is complete)
2. DIY complete hydrographic printing kit.
3. Object to be dipped.
4. Sandpaper to smooth the surface.
5. Rags.
6. Bucket of mild cleaning solution and water.
7. Vinyl, rubber, or latex gloves.

How long does Hydrographics last?

five to fifteen years
Typical Lifespan for Hydrographics A typical lifespan for the hydrographic film adhered to an item is five to fifteen years. For many types of items that you’d want to hydro dip, this would cover its full lifespan. Items that aren’t handled much, such as a vase or figurine, may have a much longer lifespan.

What is the difference between pigment and dye ink?

What’s the difference between the two? Dye inks consist of a soluble colourant, or dye, dissolved in liquid, while pigment inks consist of microscopic specks of solid colours which are suspended in liquid.

What’s needed for hydro dipping?

Step-By-Step Guide to Hydro Dipping

• Large, deep plastic container (the container will have paint on the inside after the hydro dipping is complete)
• DIY complete hydrographic printing kit.
• Object to be dipped.
• Sandpaper to smooth the surface.
• Rags.
• Bucket of mild cleaning solution and water.
• Vinyl, rubber, or latex gloves.

Can you hydro dip at home?

While there are many companies specializing in hydro dip art for large items (e.g. cars and sports equipment), it’s possible to do the process on your own and be creative. Purchase a home hydro dip kit online to apply a design of your choice, with minimal equipment or experience.

Can you hydro dip wood?

Step 1: Prepare Your Wood Just like any paint job, before hydro-dipping you need to prepare your work. I dipped this natural wood skateboard, as it had a light coat of protective that was easy to sand away. Using an 80 grit sandpaper I blasted through the clear protective coat and got down to the raw wood underneath.