Holographic Foil Prints (VFX UV Printing)
Spot Visual Effect & 3D Texture
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.
The Magic of Ink Layers
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.
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.
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.
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.
Print Setup
You can bookmark this page for reference, download supplied example files for understanding how it works. If you have questions or need to hire pre-press professional for setup UV print files, we can help.
Before moving on, please back up your design and save a new copy!
Canvas & Resolution: Up to 24” wide, and files require a minimum resolution of 300 PPI to 600 PPI, pixel per inch. We recommend working on a larger file, which you can then scale down to any smaller versions you may need in the future.
Color Profile: Adobe RGB 1998 / PrinWide2020
(Working Color Space ICC Profile, Download)
Step 1
Design the White Layer
Start with white solid color fill (#FFFFFF), and mask the shape you wish to have the VFX vinyl show through.
Use only black (#000000) 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 expose raw VFX vinyl underneath.
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 colorful art sits on this layer, right above the white layer. Note that artwork's white area in this layer will be left as blank. This layer controls CMYK ink, and white means no ink in this layer. This layer functions as'multiply' blending mode in Adobe Photoshop.
The color ink is semi-opaque, and will blend color with VFX vinyl underneath. Take this advantage creating multiple, dynamic color foil effect (will explain later in Table.1.).
Step 3
Design the Varnish Layer
Start with solid color fill with any color that provides enough contrast while working on the design. Assign your mask black, and create shapes by drawing white on the mask.
The opacity controlled by the mask will decide how much varnish ink printed on the surface. You can change any solid color to indicate the area, but it will print as a clear, raised ink. This layer functions as 'spot color' in printing, which indicates the amout of special ink cannot be displayed on screen, such as invisible or metallic inks.
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. Think like your shirt get wet, and the apprarance look darker.
Table. 1. Refer to this technique table while designing your visual effects:
|
Technique |
Color Layer |
White Layer |
Varnish Layer |
|
Raw VFX Foil Drop-Out |
Masked |
Masked |
Optional |
|
Shiny Color Foil |
Any Color |
Masked |
Add Varnish |
|
Matte Color Foil |
Any Color |
Masked |
No Varnish |
Table. 2. Varnish amount v.s. Mask
|
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 |
Appearance / Type |
|
Top |
Varnish |
Any solid color with mask |
|
Middle |
Color |
Graphic with mask |
|
Bottom |
White |
White color fill with mask |
Demo Print File
The layer order has been set up for you. Use any color fill for varnish, whatever easy to show the difference while creating mask.
Sample
Printed sample is available for request, it's free. You can leave a note upon placing order, or contact us for shipping samples. Not all the sample in currently stock, but we will do our best.
Test Print
Order small prints: Try 25% scale before full production, or contact us for trial prints.
Test Wedge: place several portions of your artwork requires extra attention into a small print.
*Make sure you have enough time for editing print files and mailing also takes some time.
Turnaround
Check our announcement for live update. Whole proccess from start to deliver usually takes 1.5-3 week, include contact, editing, production, and standard shipping.
Please reserve in advance before peak convention season, some print works will take significantly longer due to high demand.
Rush order will add notable fee depending on the ongoing queqe and expected in-hand date.
For Merchants
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 VFX vinyl options, and it’s a good idea to demonstrate the glowing effect under UV flash light.
General Pricing
Your flagship print should be priced higher than any generic prints.
8.5x11: $35~55+
11x17: $45~65+
12x18: $45~65+
18x24: $85~220+
24x36: $185~345+
Approved content
SFW-based
General art / Original content
Artistic nudity / Classic figurative
Fanart / Gothic / Horror
Furry art (anthro / feral are welcome)
LGBTQ+ movements
NSFW-based, send for review
Violence / Excessive blood / Torture / Piercing
Sexual activity, BDSM etc
Adult furry art (anthro / feral)
Intimate LGBTQ+ contents
Adult sexual wellness products
NOT Allowed
AI-generated content, deepfakes
Contents against California & federal law
Unlicensed including expired, copyright infringement
Suicide, pedophile, and children abuse
Nonconsensual intimate imagery
We Support Artists
We grow success with our clients. No matter the size of the business: freelancers, small studios, retail shops, and all the way to galleries and private museums.
For verified clients, log in to see updated pricing.
Discount and tax-exempt calculated separately.
Discounts will be applied manually: invoice, custom order, and pricing errors etc.
Review proccess is manual, please allow us some time.
Business Advantage
Looking for the best print manufacturer for your art 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.
The Magic of Ink Layers
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.
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.
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.
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.
Print Setup
You can bookmark this page for reference, download supplied example files for understanding how it works. If you have questions or need to hire pre-press professional for setup UV print files, we can help.
Before moving on, please back up your design and save a new copy!
Canvas & Resolution: Up to 24” wide, and files require a minimum resolution of 300 PPI to 600 PPI, pixel per inch. We recommend working on a larger file, which you can then scale down to any smaller versions you may need in the future.
Color Profile: Adobe RGB 1998 / PrinWide2020
(Working Color Space ICC Profile, Download)
Step 1
Design the White Layer
Start with white solid color fill (#FFFFFF), and mask the shape you wish to have the VFX vinyl show through.
Use only black (#000000) 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 expose raw VFX vinyl underneath.
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 colorful art sits on this layer, right above the white layer. Note that artwork's white area in this layer will be left as blank. This layer controls CMYK ink, and white means no ink in this layer. This layer functions as'multiply' blending mode in Adobe Photoshop.
The color ink is semi-opaque, and will blend color with VFX vinyl underneath. Take this advantage creating multiple, dynamic color foil effect (will explain later in Table.1.).
Step 3
Design the Varnish Layer
Start with solid color fill with any color that provides enough contrast while working on the design. Assign your mask black, and create shapes by drawing white on the mask.
The opacity controlled by the mask will decide how much varnish ink printed on the surface. You can change any solid color to indicate the area, but it will print as a clear, raised ink. This layer functions as 'spot color' in printing, which indicates the amout of special ink cannot be displayed on screen, such as invisible or metallic inks.
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. Think like your shirt get wet, and the apprarance look darker.
Table. 1. Refer to this technique table while designing your visual effects:
|
Technique |
Color Layer |
White Layer |
Varnish Layer |
|
Raw VFX Foil Drop-Out |
Masked |
Masked |
Optional |
|
Shiny Color Foil |
Any Color |
Masked |
Add Varnish |
|
Matte Color Foil |
Any Color |
Masked |
No Varnish |
Table. 2. Varnish amount v.s. Mask
|
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 |
Appearance / Type |
|
Top |
Varnish |
Any solid color with mask |
|
Middle |
Color |
Graphic with mask |
|
Bottom |
White |
White color fill with mask |
Demo Print File
The layer order has been set up for you. Use any color fill for varnish, whatever easy to show the difference while creating mask.
Sample
Printed sample is available for request, it's free. You can leave a note upon placing order, or contact us for shipping samples. Not all the sample in currently stock, but we will do our best.
Test Print
Order small prints: Try 25% scale before full production, or contact us for trial prints.
Test Wedge: place several portions of your artwork requires extra attention into a small print.
*Make sure you have enough time for editing print files and mailing also takes some time.
Turnaround
Check our announcement for live update. Whole proccess from start to deliver usually takes 1.5-3 week, include contact, editing, production, and standard shipping.
Please reserve in advance before peak convention season, some print works will take significantly longer due to high demand.
Rush order will add notable fee depending on the ongoing queqe and expected in-hand date.
For Merchants
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 VFX vinyl options, and it’s a good idea to demonstrate the glowing effect under UV flash light.
General Pricing
Your flagship print should be priced higher than any generic prints.
8.5x11: $35~55+
11x17: $45~65+
12x18: $45~65+
18x24: $85~220+
24x36: $185~345+
Approved content
SFW-based
General art / Original content
Artistic nudity / Classic figurative
Fanart / Gothic / Horror
Furry art (anthro / feral are welcome)
LGBTQ+ movements
NSFW-based, send for review
Violence / Excessive blood / Torture / Piercing
Sexual activity, BDSM etc
Adult furry art (anthro / feral)
Intimate LGBTQ+ contents
Adult sexual wellness products
NOT Allowed
AI-generated content, deepfakes
Contents against California & federal law
Unlicensed including expired, copyright infringement
Suicide, pedophile, and children abuse
Nonconsensual intimate imagery
We Support Artists
We grow success with our clients. No matter the size of the business: freelancers, small studios, retail shops, and all the way to galleries and private museums.
For verified clients, log in to see updated pricing.
Discount and tax-exempt calculated separately.
Discounts will be applied manually: invoice, custom order, and pricing errors etc.
Review proccess is manual, please allow us some time.
Business Advantage
Looking for the best print manufacturer for your art business?
For Urgent Orders
Please contact us for rush orders when there is no in-hand date available. If you place a rush order online, we'll contact you regarding our current production schedule plus any additional fees.
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.
-
Where prints are made?
VFX Substrates are sourced in the USA and printed in California, Oakland, the first print studio introduce VFX prints to art community.