Holographic Foil Prints (VFX UV Printing)
Official, next-generation holographic foil print: dynamic spot holographic with a 3D gloss raised texture. Uproar Design & Print offers a complete range of specialty vinyls, providing over 80 creative visual effect options. Our holographic foil print service features several captivating subcategories, including “Glow-in-the-dark,” “Neon,” and “Color-shift,” inviting artists to experiment and create stunning designs. As the first printing service providers to introduce VFX holographic foil print to artists, we offer our dedicated team’s extensive knowledge base to transform your artwork into a majestic showpiece at any convention.
*Note: We do not print AI-generated content.
The Magic of UV Layering
UV printing is a unique process where ultraviolet lights instantly dry specially formulated inks as soon as they hit the printing surface. When creating high-end art prints, the printer builds the image physically from the bottom up, stacking distinct layers to create brilliant colors and textures.
Here is how the layer stack comes together:
- The Substrate: Instead of standard paper, we use a VFX vinyl that acts as a holographic, metallic, or color-shifting sheet. This provides the raw, shiny effect that will show through wherever ink isn't printed.
- Layer 1 - White Ink: The white ink layer acts as an opaque blocker. Wherever you want your artwork to look completely solid and hide the holographic background, the printer lays down a solid base of white ink first.
- Layer 2 - Color Ink: This is your actual artwork. When printed directly over the white ink base, the colors look solid with no translucent effect. If the color is printed directly onto the bare substrate (skipping the white layer), it blends with the shiny background to create stunning, multi-colored metallic effects. By using silver vinyl, you can create any metallic foil effect; for example, silver vinyl mixed with yellow ink creates gold foil, giving you control over golden tones like 18K, 22K, pure, or rose gold.
- Layer 3 - Gloss Varnish Ink: The final touch is a clear varnish. This layer can be applied flat to create a shiny "spot gloss" over specific details, and the amount can be adjusted to create raised, 3D embossed textures that you can physically feel.
Before moving on, please back up your design and save a new copy!
- Canvas & Resolution: The widest side we can currently print is 24” wide, and files require a minimum resolution of 300 to 600 PPI. We recommend working on a larger file, which you can then crop down to any smaller versions you may need in the future.
- Color Profile: Convert or assign your color profile to Adobe RGB 1998, using whichever setting best retains the color appearance or looks pleasing to you.
Step 1: Design the White Layer
- Start with the white layer by creating a solid color fill, and mask out the shape you wish to have the VFX vinyl show through.
- Use only 100% black and white for creating your mask.
- Pro Tip: You can duplicate the white layer mask onto the color layer, which ensures the color ink will not print there either. By masking out color on your design, you will achieve a clean foil stamp effect.
- Advanced Technique: For very small details, you might see the white layer protruding out and creating a halo around the area. In Photoshop, you can contract or expand the selection by 3–5 pixels (for 300 PPI artwork) or 6–8 pixels (for 600 PPI artwork) while creating your mask. This ensures the white layer does not creep out and become visible.
Step 2: Design the Color Layer
Your main art sits on this layer, directly on top of the white layer. Note that white in this layer will be left blank and will not print; white elements are controlled exclusively by the white ink layer.
Refer to this technique table while designing your visual effects:
|
Technique |
Color Layer |
White Layer |
Varnish Layer |
|
Raw VFX Foil |
Masked |
Masked |
Optional |
|
Gloss Color Foil |
Any Color |
Masked |
Add Varnish |
|
Matte Color Foil |
Any Color |
Masked |
No Varnish |
Step 3: Design the Varnish Layer
Use a solid color fill with any color that provides enough contrast while working on the design and create your shapes with masks.
- Creating Textures: You can apply different amounts of varnish by masking the area with grayscale. This allows you to turn parts of your artwork into raised gloss varnish or even create an entirely new design on top of the current artwork.
- Creative Example: If you are creating eye-catching Halloween art, you could draw an empty interior of a haunted house on your color layer. Then, you can create transparent ghosts flying around exclusively on the varnish layer. To make it even more special, applying very thin varnish can make elements look near-invisible, like an ethereal spirit.
- Note: Darker colors may look deeper when covered by varnish due to a wetting effect.
We will show you the table of varnishing techniques below:
|
Technique |
Grayscale on Mask |
Notes |
|
No Varnish |
Black (100% Black) |
N/A |
|
Thick Varnish |
White (0% Black) |
To avoid flooding, apply in small areas (about 1” diameter). Avoid putting details too close to each other, or they will merge. |
|
Raised Varnish |
Light Gray (30% Black) |
Don’t apply on large continuous areas (about 3” diameter). Bubbles on the surface may occur if applied too broadly. |
|
Detailing Varnish |
Medium Gray (50% Black) |
Best for small detailing with raised gloss but a less tactile feel. |
|
Gloss Varnish Flood |
Medium Gray (40% Black) |
For covering large areas. Don’t apply to more than 50% of the continuous area or the entire art. Small amounts of bubbles may occur. |
|
Semi-Gloss Varnish Flood |
Dark Gray (88% Black) |
Turns the surface from matte into semi-gloss and somewhat enhances contrast. |
|
Ghosting |
Dark Gray (90% Black) |
Near-invisible varnish that is only visible at certain angles. |
Step 4: Stack It Up
When your design is complete, flatten all layers to "Normal." Do not use blending modes (multiply, darken, linear dodge, etc.) or blending effects (drop shadow, outer glow, embossing, etc.).
Rename and organize your layers according to this table:
|
Layer Order |
Name |
Type of Layer |
|
Top |
Varnish |
Any solid color with mask |
|
Middle |
Color |
Graphic with mask |
|
Bottom |
White |
White color fill with mask |
We have UV print-ready Photoshop PSD files for demo:
The layer order has been set up for you. Use any color fill for varnish, whatever easy to show the difference while creating mask. The color appearance on varnish layer will NOT print.
For Artist Alley and Exhibitor
Give your best shot at selling high-premium prints at the show. Your latest works and bestsellers can be further enhanced by VFX print by Uproar. Make sure to bring a decent spotlight and proudly demonstrate VFX print to your audience. You can bring inventory, demo pieces, or have customers pre-order the prints. We can also fulfill customer orders after the show. Please record shipping information make shipping costs all-inclusive in one price tag.
Product Naming
This product is commonly known as “VFX Print,” “3D Textured Foil Print,” or “Spot Holographic Foil Print.” We recommend distinguishing it from generic-quality holographic prints, which should be sold at a lower price tier. If your artwork has raised texture, encourage customers to interact with your demo piece. We have glow-in-the-dark vinyl, and it’s a good idea to demonstrate the glowing effect under UV flash light.
Suggested General Retail Selling Price
Your flagship print should be priced higher than the rest of any generic prints.
8.5x11: $35~55+
11x17: $45~65+
12x18: $45~65+
18x24: $85~220+
24x36: $185~345+
Test Print (Highly Recommended)
- Order small print fefore commiting full production
- Make sure you have enough time: editing print files and wait for shipping
Turnaround
- Usually takes 2-3 week from production to delivery, induding proofing and editing
- Peak season for conventions will take significantly longer, reserve in advance to secure the spot
- Rush order will add notable fee depending on the situation
Shipping to Venue
- Contact us, and let us know your in-hand date, hotel address, suite number and stay duration
Approved content (SFW-based)
- General art / Origianl content
- Artistic nudity / Classic figurative
- Fanart / Gothic / Horror
- Furry art (anthro / feral are welcome)
- LGBTQ+ movement
Contact us for review (NSFW-based)
- Violence / Excissive blood / Torture / Piercing
- Sexual activity, BDSM etc
- Sexualized furry ar (anthro / feral)
- Intimate LGBTQ+ contents
- Adult sexual wellness products
NOT Allowed
- AI-generated content, deepfakes
- Unauthorized use of tedaemark, copyright or license, or rtolen content
- Suicide, pedophile, children abuse
- Nonconsensual intimate imagery
We offer B2B discount as we support artists:
- For verified clients, log in to see updated pricing
- Discount and tax-exempt applies seperately
Looking for the best print manufacturer for your business?
Official, next-generation holographic foil print: dynamic spot holographic with a 3D gloss raised texture. Uproar Design & Print offers a complete range of specialty vinyls, providing over 80 creative visual effect options. Our holographic foil print service features several captivating subcategories, including “Glow-in-the-dark,” “Neon,” and “Color-shift,” inviting artists to experiment and create stunning designs. As the first printing service providers to introduce VFX holographic foil print to artists, we offer our dedicated team’s extensive knowledge base to transform your artwork into a majestic showpiece at any convention.
*Note: We do not print AI-generated content.
The Magic of UV Layering
UV printing is a unique process where ultraviolet lights instantly dry specially formulated inks as soon as they hit the printing surface. When creating high-end art prints, the printer builds the image physically from the bottom up, stacking distinct layers to create brilliant colors and textures.
Here is how the layer stack comes together:
- The Substrate: Instead of standard paper, we use a VFX vinyl that acts as a holographic, metallic, or color-shifting sheet. This provides the raw, shiny effect that will show through wherever ink isn't printed.
- Layer 1 - White Ink: The white ink layer acts as an opaque blocker. Wherever you want your artwork to look completely solid and hide the holographic background, the printer lays down a solid base of white ink first.
- Layer 2 - Color Ink: This is your actual artwork. When printed directly over the white ink base, the colors look solid with no translucent effect. If the color is printed directly onto the bare substrate (skipping the white layer), it blends with the shiny background to create stunning, multi-colored metallic effects. By using silver vinyl, you can create any metallic foil effect; for example, silver vinyl mixed with yellow ink creates gold foil, giving you control over golden tones like 18K, 22K, pure, or rose gold.
- Layer 3 - Gloss Varnish Ink: The final touch is a clear varnish. This layer can be applied flat to create a shiny "spot gloss" over specific details, and the amount can be adjusted to create raised, 3D embossed textures that you can physically feel.
Before moving on, please back up your design and save a new copy!
- Canvas & Resolution: The widest side we can currently print is 24” wide, and files require a minimum resolution of 300 to 600 PPI. We recommend working on a larger file, which you can then crop down to any smaller versions you may need in the future.
- Color Profile: Convert or assign your color profile to Adobe RGB 1998, using whichever setting best retains the color appearance or looks pleasing to you.
Step 1: Design the White Layer
- Start with the white layer by creating a solid color fill, and mask out the shape you wish to have the VFX vinyl show through.
- Use only 100% black and white for creating your mask.
- Pro Tip: You can duplicate the white layer mask onto the color layer, which ensures the color ink will not print there either. By masking out color on your design, you will achieve a clean foil stamp effect.
- Advanced Technique: For very small details, you might see the white layer protruding out and creating a halo around the area. In Photoshop, you can contract or expand the selection by 3–5 pixels (for 300 PPI artwork) or 6–8 pixels (for 600 PPI artwork) while creating your mask. This ensures the white layer does not creep out and become visible.
Step 2: Design the Color Layer
Your main art sits on this layer, directly on top of the white layer. Note that white in this layer will be left blank and will not print; white elements are controlled exclusively by the white ink layer.
Refer to this technique table while designing your visual effects:
|
Technique |
Color Layer |
White Layer |
Varnish Layer |
|
Raw VFX Foil |
Masked |
Masked |
Optional |
|
Gloss Color Foil |
Any Color |
Masked |
Add Varnish |
|
Matte Color Foil |
Any Color |
Masked |
No Varnish |
Step 3: Design the Varnish Layer
Use a solid color fill with any color that provides enough contrast while working on the design and create your shapes with masks.
- Creating Textures: You can apply different amounts of varnish by masking the area with grayscale. This allows you to turn parts of your artwork into raised gloss varnish or even create an entirely new design on top of the current artwork.
- Creative Example: If you are creating eye-catching Halloween art, you could draw an empty interior of a haunted house on your color layer. Then, you can create transparent ghosts flying around exclusively on the varnish layer. To make it even more special, applying very thin varnish can make elements look near-invisible, like an ethereal spirit.
- Note: Darker colors may look deeper when covered by varnish due to a wetting effect.
We will show you the table of varnishing techniques below:
|
Technique |
Grayscale on Mask |
Notes |
|
No Varnish |
Black (100% Black) |
N/A |
|
Thick Varnish |
White (0% Black) |
To avoid flooding, apply in small areas (about 1” diameter). Avoid putting details too close to each other, or they will merge. |
|
Raised Varnish |
Light Gray (30% Black) |
Don’t apply on large continuous areas (about 3” diameter). Bubbles on the surface may occur if applied too broadly. |
|
Detailing Varnish |
Medium Gray (50% Black) |
Best for small detailing with raised gloss but a less tactile feel. |
|
Gloss Varnish Flood |
Medium Gray (40% Black) |
For covering large areas. Don’t apply to more than 50% of the continuous area or the entire art. Small amounts of bubbles may occur. |
|
Semi-Gloss Varnish Flood |
Dark Gray (88% Black) |
Turns the surface from matte into semi-gloss and somewhat enhances contrast. |
|
Ghosting |
Dark Gray (90% Black) |
Near-invisible varnish that is only visible at certain angles. |
Step 4: Stack It Up
When your design is complete, flatten all layers to "Normal." Do not use blending modes (multiply, darken, linear dodge, etc.) or blending effects (drop shadow, outer glow, embossing, etc.).
Rename and organize your layers according to this table:
|
Layer Order |
Name |
Type of Layer |
|
Top |
Varnish |
Any solid color with mask |
|
Middle |
Color |
Graphic with mask |
|
Bottom |
White |
White color fill with mask |
We have UV print-ready Photoshop PSD files for demo:
The layer order has been set up for you. Use any color fill for varnish, whatever easy to show the difference while creating mask. The color appearance on varnish layer will NOT print.
For Artist Alley and Exhibitor
Give your best shot at selling high-premium prints at the show. Your latest works and bestsellers can be further enhanced by VFX print by Uproar. Make sure to bring a decent spotlight and proudly demonstrate VFX print to your audience. You can bring inventory, demo pieces, or have customers pre-order the prints. We can also fulfill customer orders after the show. Please record shipping information make shipping costs all-inclusive in one price tag.
Product Naming
This product is commonly known as “VFX Print,” “3D Textured Foil Print,” or “Spot Holographic Foil Print.” We recommend distinguishing it from generic-quality holographic prints, which should be sold at a lower price tier. If your artwork has raised texture, encourage customers to interact with your demo piece. We have glow-in-the-dark vinyl, and it’s a good idea to demonstrate the glowing effect under UV flash light.
Suggested General Retail Selling Price
Your flagship print should be priced higher than the rest of any generic prints.
8.5x11: $35~55+
11x17: $45~65+
12x18: $45~65+
18x24: $85~220+
24x36: $185~345+
Test Print (Highly Recommended)
- Order small print fefore commiting full production
- Make sure you have enough time: editing print files and wait for shipping
Turnaround
- Usually takes 2-3 week from production to delivery, induding proofing and editing
- Peak season for conventions will take significantly longer, reserve in advance to secure the spot
- Rush order will add notable fee depending on the situation
Shipping to Venue
- Contact us, and let us know your in-hand date, hotel address, suite number and stay duration
Approved content (SFW-based)
- General art / Origianl content
- Artistic nudity / Classic figurative
- Fanart / Gothic / Horror
- Furry art (anthro / feral are welcome)
- LGBTQ+ movement
Contact us for review (NSFW-based)
- Violence / Excissive blood / Torture / Piercing
- Sexual activity, BDSM etc
- Sexualized furry ar (anthro / feral)
- Intimate LGBTQ+ contents
- Adult sexual wellness products
NOT Allowed
- AI-generated content, deepfakes
- Unauthorized use of tedaemark, copyright or license, or rtolen content
- Suicide, pedophile, children abuse
- Nonconsensual intimate imagery
We offer B2B discount as we support artists:
- For verified clients, log in to see updated pricing
- Discount and tax-exempt applies seperately
Looking for the best print manufacturer for your business?
FAQ: Holographic Foil Prints (VFX UV Print)
-
What exactly are VFX UV Holographic Foil Prints?
Our VFX UV printing is a specialized process that overlays vibrant color and clear varnish UV ink directly onto special visual effect (VFX) vinyl substrates. Instead of using traditional hot foil stamping, we use flatbed UV printers. This allows us to create dynamic, multi-color holographic foil effects and physical raised textures on your posters.
-
What is the standard turnaround time for VFX UV Prints?
Our standard production time for UV VFX prints is at least 2-3 weeks, including sending proof, working on adjustments, and editing out mistakes. If you are preparing for an upcoming convention and need a shorter turnaround or a rush order, please contact us directly for a custom quote.
-
How durable are these prints? Will they survive the hustle of a convention floor?
Yes! They are highly durable to outdoor UV light, scratch, water. However, we recommend handling artwork with utmost care, especially corners.
-
Do you offer B2B discounts for artists and small businesses?
Yes, we offer a Business Advantage/B2B discount specifically designed for Artist Alley vendors, small businesses, retail shops, and studios. You can apply for this discount through our B2B printing service application page.
-
Can I use more than one foil color in my design?
Absolutely. Traditional foil stamping limits you to single colors (like standard gold or silver). With our process, we print color over 80+ types of special visual effect vinyls (such as Aurora Rainbow, Crystal Holographic, Color-Shift, and Florentine Swirl). You can blend gradients, multiple colors, and even specific image elements directly into the foil layer seamlessly.
-
Can I choose between matte and glossy foil finishes?
Yes! For matte metallic effect, print your color directly on the vinyl with no white ink underneath to create a sleek, subtle metallic color blend. For glossy metallic effect: Add a clear varnish on top of that color blend for a clear glossy finish.
-
What is varnish ink and how can I use it?
You can use it for “spot gloss” effect, which uses clear varnish UV ink to make specific area more eye-catching (like fish scales, magical energy, or water droplets on soda can).
-
Can I create actual 3D textures on my print?
Yes! By adjusting the amount of clear gloss varnish, we can build actual physical textures into your print. You can create embossed, 3D effects—like raised scales on a dragon or the texture of magical energy—that your customers can physically feel when they run their fingers over the print. This required an advanced setup, and please contact us.
-
What file format do you accept?
We require a Photoshop document (PSD or PSB). Alternatively, you can export layer seperately, but have to be exact pixel dimension.
-
What are the color profile and resolution requirements?
Resolution at 300 to 600 DPI, embedded color Profile with Adobe RGB (Do NOT use CMYK), assigned rendering intent should be either perceptual or relative colorimetric with black point compensation.
-
How do I set up my layers for VFX UV Printing?
Your file must be sent with exactly 3 flattened layers in the following top-to-bottom order, Varnish, Color, and White layer.
-
Can I send AI-art?
No. Period.
-
Can I request print samples?
Absolutely! Although we do not have all the samples ready at all time, but we will do our best.
-
Can I run a test print?
We highly recommend doing test print, since VFX printing is more complex and the actual color blending can be unpredictable. It also helps reducing mistakes while designing artwork.