WhatTheyThink

Premium Commentary & Analysis

Just Stick It: Materials for Applied Graphics Allow Solutions Anywhere

If you have been out in the world at all, you know that the number of surfaces to which graphics can be applied is only limited by the number of surfaces there are—which is to say that display graphics can be applied just about anywhere: walls, windows, doors, streets and sidewalks, 3D objects, vehicles—name it. Despite the overwhelming variety of graphics applications, some general trends are emerging, and some older trends are becoming more important.

Wednesday, April 12, 2023

If you have been out in the world at all, you know that the number of surfaces to which graphics can be applied is only limited by the number of surfaces there are—which is to say that display graphics can be applied just about anywhere: walls, windows, doors, streets and sidewalks, 3D objects, vehicles—name it. Despite the overwhelming variety of graphics applications, some general trends are emerging, and some older trends are becoming more important.

One new trend that FLEXcon has been seeing is a demand for prismatic or holographic films. FLEXcon has launched new series of its PRISMcal self-adhesive, holographic metallized vinyl films, an updated version of the product line. The new holographic films are designed to help display graphics providers create eye-catching static alternatives to dynamic digital displays (DDS). “Static graphics have taken a big hit from digital displays,” said Jodi Sawyer, Strategic Business Unit Manager, Retail & Advertising, FLEXcon. “How can we make static graphics more experiential? So the goal with reintroducing these products is to add light, movement, and refraction to bridge the gap between a digital display and a static graphic. It’s a way that print service providers can add some life and some differentiation.”

The PRISMcal line comprises 2.6-mil rigid vinyl films that are compatible with a variety of print technologies, including UV and solvent screen and UV inkjet. FLEXcon currently offers four prismatic patterns in 54-inch masters which can be slit and sheeted to converter specifications, while two patterns are also available pre-sheeted to 100 27x20-in. sheets per box.


Continue reading your article
with a WhatTheyThink membership.

WhatTheyThink Annual Membership

Less than $4/week.

Get unlimited access to in-depth commentary and analysis covering the latest trends, emerging technologies, operational strategies, and key events across every segment of today's printing industry.

Stay informed. Stay competitive. Stay ahead.
WhatTheyThink Day Pass

$5 for 24 hours

Unlimited access to all of WhatTheyThink. Get your Day Pass

Already a member?
Sign In

About Richard Romano

Richard Romano is Managing Editor of WhatTheyThink.  He curates the Wide Format section on WhatTheyThink.com. He has been writing about the graphic communications industry for more than 25 years. He is the author or coauthor of more than half a dozen books on printing technology and business. His most recent book is “Beyond Paper: An Interactive Guide to Wide-Format and Specialty Printing.

Recent Articles from Richard Romano

WhatTheyThink Student of the Month: Adrian Martinez

WhatTheyThink Student of the Month: Adrian Martinez

In partnership with the Foundation for Graphic Communication Education (formerly the Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation), WhatTheyThink is profiling promising students in a graphic communications or related program. This month, we profile Adrian Martinez, a third-year student at Illinois State University majoring in Graphic Communication Technology. Read More

Meet Our Student of the Month: Adrian Martinez

Meet Our Student of the Month: Adrian Martinez

In partnership with the Foundation for Graphic Communication Education (formerly the Print & Graphics Scholarship Foundation), each month we profile a promising student in a graphic communications or related program. The goal is to raise awareness of graphic communications programs, as well as help students get a “leg up” on entering the industry after graduation. This month, we profile Adrian Martinez, a third-year student at the Illinois State University majoring in Graphic Communications Technology. Read More

EFI's Ken Hanulec on Trends in Display Graphics

EFI's Ken Hanulec on Trends in Display Graphics

Ken Hanulec, Vice President of Worldwide Marketing for EFI, talks about the latest trends in display graphics as well as some of the recent EFI product releases. Read More

Epson's Latest UV Flatbed Printer

Epson's Latest UV Flatbed Printer

David Bistrovic, Product Manager, Professional Imaging, for Epson highlights some of the company's most recent product introductions—including its new UV flatbed printer, the 10-color SureColor V4000. Read More

Roland Makes Its Mark

Roland Makes Its Mark

Richard Romano talks with Michelle Schott, Marketing Director for Roland DG, about the company's celebration of a major milestone and its new branding. Read More

Recent Printing Industry News

Wednesday, June 03, 2026