Table of Contents
What 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.
How much does hydrographic film cost?
Average Costs for Hydro Dipping Hydro dipping fees for guns typically range from $200 to $500, depending on the make and model. Gun accessories cost $50 to $200 to hydro dip. The average cost for hydro dipping a smaller object, such as cups starts at $30.
What material is best for hydro dipping?
Hydrographic designs require no special printing equipment, and you can use any material that can withstand being submerged in water, such as ceramics, plastics, metal, and fiberglass. You can also hydro dip wood, but you should exercise caution because the process may warp the wood if you do not use a sealer primer.
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).
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 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.
Is Hydro dipping popular?
HYDRO dipping is a new form of painting that has taken the world by storm. Since videos emerged of the phenomenon a couple of years ago, it has grown in popularity.
Can I 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.
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.
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.
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.
Can you use any paint for hydro dipping?
Any paint requires a good primer to stick to, and a clear coat to seal the paint in after and offer ultimate protection. Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch Flat White Primer is the go-to for hydro dipping.
Is Hydro dip waterproof?
Hydro dipping works because when the spray paint is on the water, it does not mix, so when you submerge the object, the paint sticks to the base coat providing a water proof sealant on the outside of the object.
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.
Is Hydro dipping water resistant?
If you have items from your boat that are being hydro dipped, you’ll want to be sure that the surface will hold up with saltwater as well. Clear coats used in marine applications are usually similar to those used in the automotive industry but with more UV and saltwater resistance.
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 start a hydro dipping business?
You’ll need to create your business identity. Hydro dipping is a business that you’ll want to have an LLC or incorporate if at all possible. Because you are dipping the products that people are bringing to you into paint that dries as hard as an automotive clearcoat, you’re assuming a lot of liability.
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.
