WHAT IS HYDRO-GRAPHICS?
Hydro-Graphics is a process that can decorate ANY kind of hard-surfaced, non-porous part, such as plastic or metal, and make it look like a variety of finishes, such as wood grains, carbon fibers, straight grains, brushed aluminum, granites and more in various colors.

HOW DOES IT WORK?
You take the part in question, and spray it in the desired base color (for rosewood, reddish-brown, for carbon fiber, black). The pattern itself, whatever the pattern may be (straight-grained or burled wood, carbon fiber, brushed aluminum) is printed on a thin, water-soluble film. You cut a piece of the film that will be big enough to envelope the part in question, then lay the film on the surface of water floating in a specialized stainless steel tank. A chemical is sprayed on the film that dissolves the film, leaving just the ink pattern floating on the surface of the water. Then the part is dipped in the water slowly, and it picks up the pattern, much like an Easter Egg. The last step is to spray a high gloss clear coat on the part to give it depth and shine.

You are left with a part that looks like it came from the factory in a wood grain, carbon fiber, or whatever finish you choose. No appreciable thickness is added to the part. There is no film to peel off. This is the same process used by the OEMs right now to achieve the wood grain and carbon fiber finishes in their vehicles (think Lincoln Navigator, Ford Superduty Lariat trucks).

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OTHER FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

IS WATER TRANSFER PRINTING DURABLE?
We like to let our product speak for itself. Some of our largest clientele are automobile and boat manufacturers who demand highest standards of quality and durability. Many parts we manufacture spend the majority of their lives in direct exposure, such as boat instrument panels. The clear coat we use is automotive grade, designed to withstand nature and time.

CAN ITEMS BE REPRINTED?
Yes, if you decide to change your color scheme or project layout later on, items can be re-printed to match your new project.

WHAT KIND OF ITEMS CAN BE PRINTED?
A wide variety of flat or 3-D shapes and manufacturing materials (plastics, metals, etc.) can be printed.

HOW LONG DOES THE PROCESS TAKE?
It all depends on the complexity of the item being printed. Most items can be ready for pick up in about a week. Upon reciept of your part we will confirm color, material, pricing and payment options. At that time we will give you your approximate delivery date. USPS priority mail to all lower 48 states is offered as well as international shipping upon request.

HOW SCRATCH RESISTANT IS THE FINAL PRODUCT?
The clear acrylic recommended is the same as that used on auto exteriors.