Hydro Dipping 101: What It Is and What You Need to Know
Apr 1st 2025
If you're new to the world of hydro dipping, you're in for an exciting ride. This innovative technique allows you to apply stunning, full-color graphics to three-dimensional objects using water and film. Whether you're personalizing a tumbler, customizing automotive parts, or creating branded products for your business, hydro dipping is a creative and professional way to make your items stand out.
But before you get started, it's helpful to understand the terminology and the various ways people refer to hydro dipping. Below we break it all down, starting with the many names you might hear for this process.
Alternate Names for Hydro Dipping
Hydro dipping may be the term you're most familiar with, but there are several other names used in different industries and communities. Knowing these can help when you're researching, shopping for supplies, or explaining your process to others.
| Alternate Term | Notes / Usage |
|---|---|
| Water Transfer Printing | Most common industry synonym; often used in technical or manufacturing contexts. |
| Hydrographics | Popular among professionals and hobbyists; sounds more technical. |
| Hydrographic Dipping | Variation of “hydrographics”; great for keyword diversity. |
| Water Dipping | Informal term, often used by beginners or in DIY communities. |
| Aqua Printing | Marketed term often used in automotive industries. |
| Camo Dipping | Common for camo pattern applications on gear or firearms. |
| Immersion Printing | Technical description focusing on the dipping process. |
| Hydro-Imaging | Less common, seen in crafting communities. |
| 3D Printing Transfer | Misused term—describes applying a 2D image to a 3D object. |
| Water Transfer Imaging | Another visual-focused phrase for the process. |
Common Hydro Dipping Terms
As you dive into your first projects, you’ll come across industry-specific language that can feel confusing at first. Here's a breakdown of common hydro dipping terms and why they matter.
| Keyword | Definition | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Hydrokon Film | Blank PVA film for Water Transfer Printing | Easily print your own custom graphics on this blank hydrographic film |
| PVA Film | A water-soluble film used to hold the printed design. | It dissolves in water, allowing the ink to transfer to the object during dipping. |
| Hydrographic Film | Another term for printed PVA film used in water transfer printing. | Choosing the right film is key to getting sharp, high-quality transfers. |
| Activator | A chemical spray that liquifies the film and releases the ink. | Ensures proper ink release and adhesion to the dipped object. |
| Substrate | The item or surface being dipped. | Different materials may require special base coats or prepping methods. |
| Base Coat | A paint layer applied before dipping. | Affects how the final design appears—white is most common for color accuracy. |
| Clear Coat / Top Coat | A protective layer added after dipping. | Seals the design and adds durability and shine. |
| Rinse Cycle | Washing off any excess film after the dip. | Prevents texture and improves finish clarity. |
| Curing | The drying or setting process for paint or top coat. | Helps the design and coating last longer. |
| Custom Hydro Film | A film printed with personalized artwork. | Ideal for branding, personalization, or small business offerings. |
| Water Transfer Printing | Another name for hydro dipping. | Used interchangeably in the industry—great for keyword variation in SEO. |
| Ink Adhesion | How well the ink bonds to the film and object. | Impacts whether the image distorts or peels off. |
| Color Fastness | Resistance to fading or bleeding during the dip. | Important for vibrant, long-lasting designs. |
| CMYK Printing | A full-color process using cyan, magenta, yellow, and black inks. | Required to reproduce photographs or colorful images accurately. |
| Pre-Treatment / Prep | Getting the film or substrate ready before dipping. | Helps prevent bubbles, distortion, or failed transfers. |
| Dip Tank | The water container used to float and dip the film. | A controlled environment ensures even coverage and clean dips. |
| Film Printer | A printer capable of printing on blank PVA film. | Allows shops to offer on-demand, custom designs. |
| Drying Rack | Holds dipped items as they dry. | Keeps airflow steady and avoids smudges or dust. |
| Hydro Dipping Kit | A bundled set of tools and materials for beginners. | Makes it easier for DIY users to start dipping right away. |
| Hydrographic Supply | Any materials or tools used in hydro dipping. | Covers everything from film to gloves to full dip tanks. |
Why Hydrokon is the Best Film for Your Projects
If you’re looking to get started with hydro dipping or take your custom film printing to the next level, Hydrokon blank PVA film is your best bet. Our film is made in the USA, designed for crisp ink adhesion, and compatible with standard inkjet printers using pigment-based ink. It’s easy to use, cost-effective, and perfect for both beginners and experienced dippers.
Whether you're calling it hydro dipping, water transfer printing, or aqua imaging, the process starts with the right film—and Hydrokon delivers. Stay tuned to the Hydrokon blog for more tips, tricks, and how-tos to help you dip with confidence.