A Beginner's Guide to Hydrodipping with Hydrokon

Hydro dipping, also known as hydrographics or water transfer printing, makes it possible to apply detailed, custom graphics to complex three-dimensional surfaces. From automotive components and sporting goods to home décor and personalized products, the process can decorate shapes that are difficult to print using conventional methods.

With Hydrokon Water Transfer Film, you can print your own designs rather than relying solely on pre-printed hydrographic patterns. In this beginner's guide, we'll walk through the basic equipment, preparation, printing, activation, dipping and rinsing steps needed to get started.

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What is Hydrodipping?

Hydrodipping involves transferring a printed design from a film to a 3D object using water immersion. The film itself does not adhere to the object or melt. The film serves as a temporary carrier for the image. Once activated, the printed image becomes ready to transfer to the prepared surface. The water-soluble carrier film is then rinsed away, leaving the printed design behind. This technique is commonly used for decorating automotive parts, helmets, home decor items, and other substrates with complex curves and three-dimensional surfaces.

Materials Needed for Hydrodipping

To get started with hydrodipping, you'll need the following materials:

• Hydrokon Water Transfer Film: Blank, printable hydrographic film for creating your own custom designs. Compatible with recommended latex and pigment-based inkjet printing workflows.

• Base Coat Paint: Ensures the image adheres properly. Choose a color that complements your design.

• Activating Spray: Softens the ink on the film and helps it bond to the base coat.

• Primer (if necessary): Helps the base coat adhere better to certain surfaces.

• Top Coat (Clear Coat): Protects the finished design and adds a glossy or matte finish.

• A Large Container or Tank: Filled with water at approximately 90°F (32°C), deep enough for full submersion.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Use appropriate gloves, eye protection, ventilation and any respiratory protection specified by the manufacturers of the activator, paints and coatings. Always follow applicable SDS instructions.

• Clean Cloths and Rags: For cleaning and drying the object.

• Sandpaper (optional): For smoothing the object's surface before priming and/or roughing the surface for better adhesion.

• Topcoat / Activator A (for pigment-based inks): Required after printing with pigment-based inks.

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Hydro Dipping for Beginners: A Step-by-Step Guide with Hydrokon

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Set up a clean, well-ventilated workspace. Ensure all materials are within reach and protect the area with drop cloths or plastic sheeting if necessary.

Step 2: Print & Cut the Hydrokon Film

Print your design onto the Hydrokon Water Transfer Film. You want your design to be slightly larger than the object you're dipping to ensure complete coverage. Cut the film as needed. 

Step 3: Prepare the Object

Clean the object thoroughly to remove dust, grease, or residues. Use sandpaper to rough the surface for better ink adhesion. Apply a primer if required and let it dry completely.

Step 4: Apply the Base Coat

Spray a uniform layer of base coat paint on the object. Allow it to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions. The base coat will slightly soften during activation, allowing the ink to adhere properly.

Step 5: Prepare the Water

Fill your container or tank with water at approximately 90°F (32°C). This ensures optimal film hydration and ink transfer.

Step 6: Place the Film in Water

Lay the Hydrokon film on the water with the printed side facing up. Allow the film to hydrate for approximately 60–75 seconds. Hydrokon generally performs best around 90°F, with soak time adjusted as conditions require.

Step 7: Activate the Film

Spray the activating solution evenly over the surface of the film, making sure not to over-activate. The activator softens the ink and slightly softens the base coat, allowing for a strong image transfer.

Step 8: Dip the Object

Slowly and steadily submerge the object into the water at an angle. Use a smooth motion to allow the image to wrap around the surface. After dipping, gently move the object back and forth to help separate it from the remaining film and achieve a clean dip.

Step 9: Rinse and Dry

Rinse thoroughly to remove the remaining water-soluble film residue. Hydrokon includes a fluorescent indicator that can be viewed with a UV blacklight. If a bluish-white glow remains on the surface, continue rinsing until it is gone.

Step 10: Apply the Top Coat

Once dry, apply a clear top coat to protect the design and give it a finished look. Allow the top coat to cure as per the manufacturer's instructions.

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Additional Step for Pigment-Based Inks

If using pigment-based inks instead of latex, an additional fixative layer is required:

1. Allow the printed film to dry completely.

2. Apply a thin fixative layer (also called Activator A) over the image.

3. Let the fixative layer dry before proceeding with hydration and dipping. This process mirrors traditional Chinese pre-printed hydrographic films and provides a more uniform activation surface.

Tips for Success when Hydrodipping

• Practice First: If you're new to hydrodipping, start with smaller, simpler objects.

• Consistent Temperature: Keep the water at 90°F for best results.

• Proper Activation: Ensure even activation to avoid imperfections.

• Smooth Movements: Submerge the object carefully to prevent bubbles or wrinkles.

• Use the Fluorescent Indicator: A blacklight can help confirm when the PVA film has been fully rinsed away.

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Hydrodipping with Hydrokon Water Transfer Film offers endless possibilities for customization. With the right technique and attention to detail, you can achieve professional-quality results that stand out. Shop Hydrokon Film, view the Printer Information page, and review the full Hydrokon User Guide for additional information. Happy dipping!