Hydrographic printing is a technology that enables decorating of all kinds of surfaces, even complex 3D objects. The word hydro graphics is a compound made up of ‘hydro’ meaning water, and ‘graphics’ meaning image. Also known as water transfer printing or hydro dipping, it refers to a process that can decorate both flat and 3D surfaces of all kinds including glass, metal, and wood. Here at Aviwraps, we have years of experience in hydrodipping and can offer you a great choice of hydro dip patterns or custom design them to your requirements.

So, what is hydro dipping exactly?

The process involves attaching a hydrographic film to the object to be printed upon and placing it in water. A special solution is then sprayed onto the film. The film dissolves in the water, leaving the ink ingrained on the object. After drying, a base paint is added to optimize the color.

Also known as immersion printing and hydro dipping, hydro graphics have been around since the early 1980s making it a proven technology. One of its strengths is the sheer range of substrata that it can handle, in terms of both the type of material and the shape and texture of the items that can be decorated. Whether large or small, smooth or rough, flat or curved, as long as the object can be immersed in water, it’s ripe for immersion printing.

The complete process is involved, as the item has to be prepared, primed, painted, dipped and clear-coated. Though it’s a complex procedure, the result is a design that bursts with visual appeal and is extremely long-lasting. This can be shown in the way that leading companies in fields ranging from aviation and automobiles to kitchen components and powersports have made full use of the process with great success.

You can apply hydrographic printing to any kind of vehicle including cars, bikes, and boats. It can even be applied to objects such as weapons and bike helmets. As we mentioned, any item you can submerge in water can be hydro dipped. Objects treated via hydro painting maintain their color and firmness for years, even boats buffeted by salt sprays and harsh sunlight.

If this is something that appeals to you, get in touch with Aviwraps today. We have well over a decade of experience and can offer you top-flight professional services that ensure your success.

One prime feature of water transfer printing is the range of materials you can use it with. These include all kinds of wood, fiberglass, metals, plastics, and ceramics. For this reason, the list of objects that are suitable for hydrographic water transfer printing is extensive.

 The most popular use is for vehicles and their components and accessories. This covers items such as bumpers, steering wheels, and grills. However, the full range of printable items includes everything from handguns, rifles, swords, and knives to home fittings and fixtures, such as countertops, lamps, cupboards, and cabinets. At Aviwraps we have the savvy and hard-won experience needed to handle these complex jobs properly and professionally.

The sky’s the limit when it comes to hydro dip patterns. Choose from animals and nature scenes, camouflage motifs, cartoon characters, flags, and so much more. The fact is that you can probably find any kind of design you’re likely to want.

When it comes to colors, you can pick a wide range of vibrant and classic hues. These include solid blocks of color, glow paints, and sparkling glitter to create just the look you want. To see what’s possible with hydro painting, check the samples at our website and call us for a friendly consultation and to see how we can help.

Should you not find your ideal pattern in our catalog, our designers can conjure up just the ones you want. We’ve been working in the design field since 2003—it’s in our name—A.V.I., a vinyl image. We’re committed to working closely with our clients and establishing long-term relationships of mutual benefit. All this means that we can create any kind of custom hydrographic film patterns that you need. Just let us know your requirements, and we’ll work with you until you’re completely satisfied.

As hydro graphics are an artistic as well as a technological process, times vary enormously. You also need to factor in time for the items to dry and cure between the application of paints. As a rough rule, an object such as a helmet should take around a hour and a half hour of hands-on time, though using automated systems such as infrared heaters can enhance the process considerably. To get a more accurate estimate of projected times, get in touch with us here at Aviwraps with full details of your project, and we’ll provide you with quick feedback.

If you’re in the Beaumont, CA area or anywhere in the US and wish to add a touch of dazzling style to your vehicles or other items, you’ll find Aviwraps to be your one-stop solution for all your needs. Just give us a ring at 951-769-0310 for an informal chat about your needs. We also offer a complete range of related services, including vehicle wraps for protection and advertising and Cerakote® treatment for guns and other items.