FAQs
What are Dry Transfers?
A dry transfer (sometimes referred to as rubdowns, transfer decals or chromatecs) is an image printed on a translucent sheet with a coating of adhesive on its back. When applied, this image is transferred from the translucent sheet onto another surface with the action of light pressure, in a rubbing motion. Dry transfers can be applied to most surfaces that are free of dust, grease or oil, and are referred to as ‘dry’ because they are applied without the use of water or solvents. After application, the transferred image appears as if it was printed directly on to the item.
What is the difference between Dry Transfers and Waterslide Transfers?
Dry transfers are an excellent alternative to waterslide decals on product prototypes, scale models, labels for electronics and even details on musical instruments.
The advantages of Dry transfers are:
No risk of damage to the application surface.
No mess from water or solvents.
More durable.
Ease of handling and application.
True and accurate colours.
Sharper image or text.
What colours can dry transfers be done in?
Our inks and laquers are mixed by hand to match all Pantone colour ranges, including metallics, pastels and foils. We can also reproduce colour references from Kurz, Foilco and RAL Colour charts. Or indeed we would be able to match any colour swatch that you may have.
Will they rub onto glass?
Yes, Chromatecs can easily be applied to paper, wood, walls, plastic, glass, ceramics, or metal, as long as the surface is clean.
How small can they reproduce?
We can reproduce very small graphic images, thus often giving an advantage over vinyl cut lettering for wall dislplays or museum labelling.
How fine can key lines be?
As a loose guide, its advisable to restrict fine keylines to 0.4pt. However it may be possible to go finer if necessary.
Are they weather proof?
No. They are not intended for outdoor use.
Are they scratch resistant?
No. Rubdowns are a temporary fixture, and although they are fairly robust, they can be scratched or damaged with a sharp object. Dry Transfers are not intended to be a permanent fixture. It is possible to apply a laquer over dry transfers, which would make them more durable.
What are the sizes that I can order?
Your digital artwork should be A5, A4, or A3.
Are they see through?
As a general rule of thumb, we make all our dry transfers opaque. This means the transfers can be applied to any dark coloured surface, without changing the colour of the transfer decal. However, we can also make them translucent if required.
How are they despatched and will they get damaged?
The nature of dry transfers is that they can be quite delicate, and prone to damage before they are used.
We go to a lot of effort to make sure the transfer sheets don’t get damaged during despatch.
Generally we package them in cardboard postal tubes, and despatch them using the ‘Special Delivery’ service via the Royal Mail, for guaranteed next day delivery.