Table of Contents
What is Hydrographic film made of?
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.
What kind of film do you use for hydro dipping?
The film used in hydro dipping produces a quality and custom finish for any OEM parts. Special inks are printed onto a large roll of Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) film. This clear film is water-soluble, which means it will start to break down when floated on water and the activator chemical is applied.
Can you Hydro dip any design?
Well, you’ll be pleased to know that you can hydro dip just about anything! This cool painting technique works on many materials — fabric, metal, wood, plastic — you name it. Hydro dipping offers endless possibilities with designs and a guarantee that every object will be one of a kind.
What is the activator for hydro dipping?
INK DRINK FILM ACTIVATOR. INK DRINK Hydrographic Film Activator is an easy to use film activator, compatible with most films on the market. Ink Drink maintains the richness and color vibrancy of your film and activates most films with a single pass (one coat).
What materials do you need 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.
How expensive is hydro dipping?
Average Costs for Hydro Dipping The average cost for hydro dipping a wheel for a vehicle is roughly $150, and that pricing can vary by as much as 20% – 50%, depending on the type of activator, finish, and labor costs. Hydro dipping fees for guns typically range from $200 to $500, depending on the make and model.
Can you clear coat over hydro dipping?
Clear coating is highly recommended for all hydrographically decorated parts. This helps to seal in the inks and allows for a cleaner finished product. When the dipped part is dry, apply the clear top coating (matte, semi-gloss or high gloss) to finish off your newly dipped hydrographic part.
What spray paint do you need for hydro dipping?
You can hydro dip any item with a nonporous surface — all you need are a few simple supplies! Step 1 – Using your 2x Rust-Oleum Spray Paint prime the item that you are going to Hydro Dip. Allow that to dry.
How long does Hydro dip last?
Hydrographic finishes are very robust and will last for many years under normal use. However, similar to your car finish, the paint can scratch if the product is abused. Scratching the protective clear coat can cause failure to the hydrographic finish.
Can u hydro dip glass?
These hydro dip glass bottles are colorful and unique and the paint technique is easy. You will never get the same paint finish twice with hydro dipping. I have photos, a tutorial, and a video showing the process. Definitely watch the video because the technique is so much easier to follow.
Can you hydro dip without spray paint?
However, you’ll need to be more careful using the spray can because spraying too close can form air bubbles on the surface, leading to undesirable patterns. People would often ask, can you hydro dip without spray paint? Yes, you can.
Can you hydro dip plastic?
Hydrographics can be applied to many types of substrates including plastic, fiberglass, wood, ceramics, and metal. For the most part, if the item can be dipped in water and can be painted using traditional techniques, then the hydrographic printing process can be used.
Who is activator?
1. a thing or person that activates. 2. Chemistry. a substance used to induce or accelerate a chemical reaction.
Do you need activator to Hydro dip?
Under and over activating are two of the leading causes in problems with hydro dipping. You are not applying a layer of paint, you just need enough activator (with a fine mist, fan pattern spray) to cover the film lightly.
Do you need a base coat for hydro dipping?
Choosing the right base coat color is very important in hydro dipping. So if you are wanting the design to look as intended and usually shown on the product page of where you are purchasing the film, then using a white base coat is usually the best choice unless it is specified that another color was used in the photo.
Can you use gloss spray paint for hydro dipping?
A gloss paint is ideal for hydro dipping. Rust-Oleum offers a wide selection of colors under high gloss, gloss, and semi-gloss finishes. If you are still looking for matte or satin finish, you can achieve that with your clear coat at the end.
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 guns?
Hydro dipping helps to enhance the surface of your gun and offers complete concealment. Double-dipping a gun involves dipping the gun twice to achieve the best results.
Do you Hydro dip with hot or cold water?
The ideal water temperature range for hydrographic dipping is 80 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
