Visible Link Dry Transfer

Dry Transfers (or rubdowns) and Direct Imaging are suitable for one-offs or low volume image generation when there is no other economic solution. Used by graphic designers, model-makers, props departments, packaging designers and test marketers. Dry Transfers are available in standard or metallic PMS colours in either matte or gloss as well as a variety of mirror foil colours. They can be applied to any non-porous or some porous surfaces, for example plastics, metal, glass, ceramics, acrylics, wood, concrete, leather, paper or cardboards etc. Images must be solid colours and can be multi-colour which requires separated artwork. Please call or email for more information.

Dry Transfers are produced by outputting your vector artwork to high resolution litho negative which is then used to contact print the image onto a specially prepared carrier sheet.

The carrier sheet is coated with your choice of Pantone® Solid Coated colour, white, black or process colour followed by an opaque backing ink and then sensitized to accept the image. The prepared sheet is exposed to a UV light source, processed, dried and coated with a water-based adhesive solution selected for its residue-free properties. Other colours available include a full range of fluoros and coloured foil inks. Rub-ups are images in reverse direction which are to be viewed through a transparent object such as a lens, glass or perspex etc.

Effects such as simulated spot varnishing, either gloss or matte can be created by substituting clear inks.

The user applies the Dry Transfer to his job by positioning the image as required, rubbing with moderate pressure on the back of the carrier then peeling the sheet away.

If any cleanup is required we recommend spraying a mild detergent solution and wiping with a soft tissue. Avoid the use of solvent cleaners as they may affect the inks.

Artwork required should be produced in Adobe Illustrator, Freehand, CorelDraw or similar program with all images rendered as 100% process black (0c, 0m, 0y, 100k). Any fonts used need to be converted to paths or outlines. Some word processing programs such as Microsoft Word do not give consistent results and should be avoided. If necessary a separate PDF file indicating colours can be provided.

Direct Imaging is an adjunct to the Dry Transfer process that uses a non-releasing ink. Images can be applied directly to non-porous surfaces including clear substrates, either right or wrong reading. This makes the process suitable for imaging on shrink-films to conform to complex-shaped containers such as cans or some bottles that have rounded shoulders or bottoms.

To get the full story on Visible Link’s Dry Transfer Rubdown Imaging call
02 9654 1169 or drop us a note at info@visiblelink.com.au