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Water Transfer Printing 101

One of the easiest methods of printing these days is known as hydrographics, which is also referred to as water transfer printing. This method of printing involves the transfer of flat or two-dimensional designs and prints on surfaces of objects with water as the transfer medium. While this appears to be easy, many people are still not familiar with this method of transfer printing. And in fact, most people have not heard of this, nor are they familiar with the concept of how this transfer printing method is done.

You might be wondering what kinds of prints and patterns have been placed on objects through water transfer printing - and there are quite many. If you are familiar with late model cars or trucks with wood grain accents in the passenger interior, they are most likely done using the hydrographic process. There are also auto manufacturers that use this method of printing to make their OEM pieces look more like real wood because this method can be quite cost effective, more durable, and can help in conserving natural resources. This method of transfer printing is also often used to camouflage guns, rifles, bows, and other hunting equipment. This transfer process is also widely used in giving vehicles a customized look.

Water transfer printing often involves the use of polyvinyl alcohol or PVA film that is known to have excellent adhesive and emulsifying properties. It is also odorless and more importantly, non toxic. An ink pattern or design is usually printed on the PVA film with the help of rolling drums, similar to those used in printing newspaper, magazines, and other print media. While there are several designs that can be used in this transfer printing process, most people prefer to use repeating patterns to make something look like they are made from some other material.

There are certain steps that must be observed to prepare objects for hydrographic printing. It is important that the object that must be printed is absolutely free of dirt and grease to ensure proper adhesion and a flawless finish. After the pattern or design has been transferred, you have the option to have it scuffed or sanded. This will enable a mechanical bond to exist between the object and primer paint coat.

Try to consider looking into hydrographic or water transfer printing if you have plans of updating how objects look. This process is quite easy and it is very likely that you can learn how to do it right away.

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Article Source: ArticlesBase.com