Program design:
The
relevant dynamic design parameters of your
project will be reviewed with you to help create an image
which will best perform in its intended environment. There is
no charge for this initial consulting and planning step. If
on-going technical consultation and detailed program design
conferences are required, special technical consultation
charges may be required.
Artwork
preparation:
We will coordinate the acquisition or
preparation of the artwork or object to be imaged. Prices vary
according to the complexity of the imagery. Artwork will
depend on what type of hologram the customer is going to use.
For example, the artwork for a true 3-D object that is 1:1
size to the final image (yes, the dove on the Visa credit card
was actually made from a very small sculpture). On the other
hand, there are holograms that are simply 2 dimensional or
appear to consist of multiple flat planes that get attention
by showing off their brilliant rainbow colors with little or
no depth. These are made with regular black and white artwork
provided as line art, transparencies or as computer files
(vector or bitmap, the former being the format of choice).
Additionally, we can take a 2 dimensional hologram or segment
of one and make a repeating "wall paper" type
pattern. This too is created from regular black and white
artwork provided as described above . Further still, a client
may request a stock hologram pattern that would be simply
overprinted with their desired graphics -- this obviously
would be similar to printing on any metallized surface or
substrate from an artwork perspective.
Mastering:
Our laser laboratory will create and produce the master
hologram. This step is the single most critical one in the
project. Prices relate to the varying techniques required to
achieve the intended holographic result. They most often vary
according to the number of levels of depth desired by the
customer. Each level or plane can give a separate presentation
of color and/or imagery at varying depths. As the hologram is
tilted, each depth plane illuminates with a different spectral
color.
Electroformed
Tooling:
Following completion of the holographic mastering
step, we must prepare tooling from which countless
replications of the hologram will be embossed. Costs for
tooling may vary if multiple images have to be combined or if
registration marks have to be added.
Approvals:
Before commencing production of embossed holograms, the
customer and Holo-Source usually meet to approve the first
holograms. At this meeting, we review and finalize the
timetables and production schedules, taking into consideration
the volume of holograms to be released, your schedule, and
other planning requirements.
Production
Embossing Run:
Millions of embossed holograms may be
produces from a single set of tools. Several elements will
affect the price per image or per square inch of embossed
material. The Holo-Source staff will guide you in to the most
cost-effective finished size and color, or into the most
appropriate substrate material that will accommodate your
intended final application method.
Application and
Converting:
Embossed hologram materials can be
manufactured for use on many different substrates and for your
selected application method, such as for laminating, automatic
labeling, window patching, or hot-stamping. Holograms may be
overprinted using a wide variety of technologies including
conventional, UV, and waterless offset; water based and UV
flexographic; water and solvent based gravure; over
hot-stamped; and screen printed. There are several ways to
apply holograms -- each having its advantages and
disadvantages from a cost, timing and resultant image quality
standpoint. Therefore, it is crucial that the application and
converting methods required are compatible with how the
folding carton product is going to be subsequently converted
by Holo-Source and filled by the customer.
