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Cold foil printing is a specialty printing process developed as an alternative to traditional hot foil stamping. Its basic principle is to apply UV adhesive to selected areas of the substrate, laminate cold foil film over the surface, and then cure the adhesive with UV light. Through this process, a silver metallic foil layer is transferred onto the designated areas. In simple terms, cold foil printing first creates a silver metallic base on the printed material. Color printing can then be applied on top of the metallic layer to create various colorful metallic effects, such as metallic red, metallic blue, metallic green, or even gradient metallic colors. This is one of the main reasons why cold foil printing is widely used for packaging, cards, labels, and specialty visual design. Colorful Metallic Effects in Cold Foil Printing In traditional hot foil stamping, different metallic colors usually require different foil films. For example, gold requires gold foil, red requires red foil, and blue requires blue foil. If a printed product contains multiple foil colors, it may require several separate stamping processes. This increases production time and makes registration more difficult. Cold foil printing works differently. In most cases, a silver foil layer is first transferred onto the substrate, and color printing is then applied over the silver foil. This means: Printing red over silver foil creates metallic red. Printing blue over silver foil creates metallic blue. Printing gradients over silver foil creates gradient metallic effects. This ability to create detailed, multi-color metallic finishes is one of the key advantages of cold foil printing, and it is difficult to achieve with traditional hot foil stamping. Texture Differences Between Cold Foil and Hot Foil Stamping Cold foil printing is especially suitable for designs that combine detailed color printing with localized metallic shine. For example, images involving machinery, metal, science fiction, mecha, or high-saturation visual effects are ideal for cold foil applications. The image of Terminator T-800 is a good example. It requires both detailed color gradation and localized metallic texture, especially colorful metallic effects. With traditional hot foil stamping, it would be extremely difficult to reproduce this kind of layered gradient and metallic color variation. Cold foil printing, however, can create richer metallic visual effects by combining a silver foil base with color overprinting. Detail and Design Limitations of Cold Foil Printing Most cold foil printing is completed in-line with color printing on the same press. This allows the metallic foil layer and color printing to achieve highly accurate registration, often within approximately ±0.1 mm. Traditional hot foil stamping transfers foil through heat and pressure. Because heat can spread beyond the edges of the design, the final result may show less precise edges. This makes hot foil stamping less suitable for very fine lines, small text, and highly detailed graphics. Cold foil printing uses UV adhesive to transfer metallic foil, making its principle closer to a printing process. In theory, this allows cold foil to achieve finer details than hot foil stamping. However, the final quality depends heavily on the compatibility between the cold foil film, UV adhesive, substrate surface, and press conditions. In practice, cold foil printing still cannot fully match the fine detail of conventional ink printing, especially in very small text, fine halftone dots, and delicate tonal transitions. When designing for cold foil printing, it may be helpful to think of cold foil as a “metallic base layer,” similar to how white ink is used in printing. The metallic base is created first, and color ink is printed over it to produce reflective metallic colors. However, cold foil is not ideal for extremely fine details or designs that rely heavily on delicate halftone gradations. Matte Varnish and Gloss Varnish Effects on Cold Foil Printing Many cold foil presses are equipped with one or two varnish units at the end of the press line. These can be used to create spot matte and gloss varnish effects. In simple terms: Matte varnish creates a matte, sandy, textured appearance. Gloss varnish creates a shiny, transparent surface. Compared with traditional matte or gloss lamination, spot matte and gloss varnish allow designers to create localized matte and glossy areas within the same printed piece. More importantly, this process can reduce the use of additional plastic film layers and help lower material costs. When matte varnish is applied over cold foil, the metallic effect becomes similar to a coarse metallic ink, creating a fine sparkling “sandy gold” texture rather than a uniform matte finish. Material Limitations of Cold Foil Printing Although cold foil printing can create rich colorful metallic effects, it is highly selective when it comes to substrates. Because cold foil relies on the adhesion between UV adhesive, foil film, and the substrate surface, it is generally more suitable for smooth, fine-surfaced coated paper or synthetic paper. This is one of the main limitations of cold foil printing compared with hot foil stamping. Traditional hot foil stamping uses heat and pressure, making it applicable to a wider range of paper materials, especially textured specialty papers. In addition, hot foil stamping can create an embossed or debossed impression, producing the recessed foil texture often favored by designers. Since cold foil does not rely on heat and heavy pressure, it generally cannot achieve the same pressed-in effect as hot foil stamping. As a simple rule: Choose cold foil printing for colorful metallic effects, gradient metallic colors, and accurate registration. Choose hot foil stamping for thick metallic texture, debossed impressions, and deeply textured specialty papers. Consider digital foil printing for short runs, variable designs, and greater substrate flexibility. A New Type of Cold Foil Technology: Digital Foil Printing In addition to conventional cold foil printing, digital foil printing has become increasingly common in recent years. Mainstream digital foil printing can generally be divided into two types: 1. Inkjet Digital Foil Printing Inkjet digital foil printing can build up a noticeable raised effect, making it suitable for foil designs with a dimensional or embossed appearance. It is often used for premium cards, packaging, and specialty printed products. 2. Toner-Based Digital Foil Printing Toner-based digital foil printing has a thickness closer to cold foil printing. Its advantage is greater flexibility in paper selection. It can be used on specialty papers with slight texture, and the foil can follow the original texture of the paper. As a result, the finish does not look overly smooth or plastic-like, giving it a distinctive appearance compared with both cold foil and hot foil stamping. To learn more, please refer to:>> Digital Foil Printing Key Design Tips for Cold Foil Printing When designing for cold foil printing, keep the following principles in mind: Use it for colorful metallic effects Cold foil is ideal for metallic red, metallic blue, gradient metallic colors, and other colorful foil effects. Avoid extremely small text and fine halftones Although cold foil can achieve more accurate registration than hot foil stamping, it still cannot fully match conventional ink printing. Choose the substrate carefully Cold foil works best on smooth, fine-surfaced substrates, such as coated paper or synthetic paper. Combine it with matte and gloss varnish for added depth Spot matte, gloss, and sandy metallic effects can add more visual layers to cold foil printing. Consider hot foil or digital foil for specialty papers If the design focuses on paper texture or debossed foil impressions, hot foil stamping or digital foil printing may be more suitable. FAQ What is cold foil printing? Cold foil printing is a printing process that transfers metallic foil using UV adhesive and cold foil film. Unlike hot foil stamping, it does not require high heat and heavy pressure. Instead, UV curing is used to transfer a silver metallic foil layer onto the substrate. What is the difference between cold foil printing and hot foil stamping? Cold foil printing is suitable for colorful metallic effects, gradient metallic colors, and accurate registration with color printing. Hot foil stamping is better suited for thick metallic finishes, debossed impressions, and premium effects on specialty papers. Can cold foil printing create colorful metallic effects? Yes. Cold foil printing usually transfers a silver metallic foil layer first, then applies color printing over it. This allows the creation of metallic red, metallic blue, gradient metallic colors, and other colorful metallic effects. What materials are suitable for cold foil printing? Cold foil printing is best suited for smooth, fine-surfaced coated paper or synthetic paper. For deeply textured specialty papers, hot foil stamping or digital foil printing is usually a better choice. Can cold foil printing be combined with matte or gloss varnish? Yes. Many cold foil presses can apply matte and gloss varnish after foil transfer. This allows designers to create localized matte, gloss, or sandy metallic textures for added visual depth.

【Introduction: About Action Learning and the Gestalt Project】 At Holo Solution, we firmly believe that "people" are a company's most core asset. We monthly host "Action Learning" activities, aiming to build an environment where team members can learn autonomously and gain a sense of achievement from their work—this is our core "Gestalt Project." Through cross-disciplinary learning, we focus on the wholeness of mind and thinking in addition to professional skills. (Extended Reading: The Practice of Action Learning: How the Gestalt Project Builds a Sustainable Learning Organization at Holo Solution Inc.) 【This Month's Theme: Crafting a Custom Mandala Scratch Card】 Following our previous mandala drawing activity, we are creating mandalas again this time, but with a "scratching" challenge! By scratching away the surface layer of scratch-off ink, members reveal the underlying special materials or colorful patterns, creating artistic works with greater variation and visual depth. Besides drawing mandalas, what makes this session special is that the host led members to mix and apply the scratch-off ink themselves. This ink is a core material frequently used by Holo Solution when manufacturing anti-counterfeiting scratch cards and lottery tickets, but not all members from different departments are familiar with its production process. Through this activity, everyone could actually touch the printing ink, observe its flow characteristics, and perfectly combine abstract printing knowledge with hands-on experience. 【Participant's Feedback: Observing Shifts in Mindset Through the Scratch Card Ink Experience】 "A handmade scratch card is actually not that easy to scratch. At first, I wanted to scrape out very fine mandala lines, but the handmade scratch-off ink accidentally peeled off in a whole piece. Because of this accident, I adapted to the ink's characteristics and changed my pattern design. The final product surprisingly evolved into an image combining a galaxy and the birth of a baby! During the process of scratching the mandala, the design kept adjusting and my thinking kept shifting. It was truly fascinating to observe the dynamic changes in my own mindset through the mottled ink, which ultimately shaped the final look of the artwork."

What is the "Gestalt Project"? It is an action learning experiment within the corporate environment, and also the core philosophy for Holo Solution to build a sustainable learning organization. Gestalt psychology tells us that "filling in the blanks" (mental completion) is human nature. However, in corporate management, we often run counter to this very nature. Through standard operating procedures (SOPs), written documentation, and various other methods, we constantly try to explain everything with absolute clarity, aiming for total consistency between words and actions. In other words, we eliminate any room for our team to think creatively or fill in the blanks. Humans inherently pursue freedom, creativity, and imagination. The shackles of rigid systems can never truly bind a group of talented people, making it essential to rethink the true essence of organizational teamwork. Perhaps what people really need in the workplace is not a flawless, robotic copy, but an "unfinished masterpiece"—a shape with a missing piece—allowing others to proactively step in and complete it. What is hard to explain linearly is that this completion is not a mechanical, plug-and-play fix, but rather using a form of "open space" to embrace and fulfill everyone's individual capability gaps. Specifically, an organization's vision and culture should not be precisely or dogmatically defined. Instead, under a certain degree of guidance, it should be shaped gradually through mutual alignment and continuous collaboration among all members. Even when that shape becomes distinct, you still cannot touch or see it, because as Gestalt theory teaches us, it is a unified form collectively completed in the minds of the team. This is the origin of the "Gestalt Project" at Holo Solution. We hope to shape an ecosystem where people genuinely enjoy living, learning, working, and growing together. This ecosystem is not only vibrant internally but can also grow sustainably, eventually merging with neighboring sub-ecosystems—evolving from small saplings and honeybees into a vast, thriving forest.

Contents Transparent Laser Parking Permit Silver Base Laser Parking Permit Sticker Type Parking Permit Card Type Parking Permit Suction Cup Type Parking Permit Color Waterproof Stickers Use Anti-Counterfeit Design to Make Parking Permits Both Attractive and Secure! Parking permits or passes are one of the most frequently counterfeited items. Although their value is not high, they are essential for daily life. This often leads to officials being careless, making management difficult and causing disputes. Using laser holographic technology for parking permits is the most economical and effective method of anti-counterfeiting. Typically, parking attendants or security guards may not thoroughly check parking permits, let alone verify their authenticity. However, the reflective effect of the laser film is very noticeable and can be quickly identified from a distance. Transparent Laser Holographic Parking Permit Rich Color Expression:  The pattern of the transparent laser film is relatively subtle, but as a gloss film, it can enhance the underlying color printing and improve the recognition of the printed content. Transparent laser holography is also frequently used in passports and documents from various countries for anti-counterfeiting purposes. Silver Laser Holographic Parking Permit Easily recognized from a distance: The silver laser holographic patterns are very distinct and have high recognizability. Custom content can be added on top of color printing. Sticker Type Parking Permit Anti-counterfeit parking permits can be made as stickers, attached to visible locations on vehicles, using basic waterproof and UV-resistant materials, ensuring durability against weather conditions for up to a year. Card Type Parking Permit Anti-counterfeit parking permits with laminating film can be printed on both sides, usually with instructions and precautions on the back. Suction Cup Type Parking Permit The suction cup can be easily fixed to the car windshield without leaving adhesive residue or being difficult to remove. Color Waterproof Stickers Using printed backgrounds for anti-counterfeit effects without laser film, suitable for subsequent printing or stamping needs. Combine Aesthetics and Security with Anti-Counterfeit Design! We provide customized designs based on your needs to achieve both aesthetic and anti-counterfeit effects! By incorporating subtle anti-counterfeit features into existing designs, you can strategically conceal elements that can be activated when necessary. Below are some commonly used anti-counterfeit printing designs for parking permits. For more design options, refer to the ' List of Anti-counterfeit Printing Pattern(Guilloche) .' Relief Printing Pattern:  The fastest counterfeit method is through scanning or photocopying, while relief printing patterns use intricate lines to create images that are difficult to replicate. Anti-Copy Pattern: Anti-copying is also a commonly used technique. Before copying, it appears as a grid pattern, but after copying, hidden patterns emerge. The relief printing pattern results in blurred lines after photocopying, whereas the anti-copy pattern reveals hidden text after copying. Although the effects may vary depending on the printer, these methods effectively reduce the risk of duplication. Grid pattern before photocopying The wheelchair symbol is visible after photocopying Laser Holographic Anti-Counterfeit Labels:  Customizable as labels that can be affixed to passes. This simple and convenient method allows for custom shapes to enhance recognizability. Generic Laser Film for Parking Permits:  Holo Solution's laser holographic film is custom-made and not available elsewhere, thus offering high security against counterfeiting.

#WaterSensitiveInk  (also known as #MoistureReactiveInk ) is a type of specialty ink that changes color upon contact with water. The most common version appears white when dry and turns transparent or colorless when wet. When printed over a colored design, the water-sensitive ink transitions from white to reveal the full-color image underneath after contact with water. Omikuji Fortune Paper | Hidden Messages Revealed with Water The printing technique used for water omikuji is quite unique. When dry, the paper appears blank with no visible text. Once it comes into contact with water, the paper becomes translucent, revealing hidden messages or images. This type of fortune-telling is commonly seen at Japanese shrines, where visitors draw random Omikuji paper slips. After placing them on water, the hidden messages appear, enhancing both the interactive experience and the spiritual significance of the ritual. Once dried, the hidden text typically disappears again. However, repeated exposure to water may cause the printed letters to blur over time, reducing detail clarity. Moisture-Reactive Ink for Tamper-Evident Security Labels In anti-counterfeiting applications, moisture-reactive ink is often used for tamper-evident seals. If a counterfeiter attempts to soak and remove the label, the ink will change color upon contact with water, leaving an irreversible mark as proof of tampering. These inks typically shift from a visible color to transparent and do not return to their original state after drying. This irreversible color change acts as clear evidence of unauthorized access, making them ideal for secure packaging and product authentication.

Content Holo Card | Foil Card Holographic Surprise Stickers | Bikkuriman (ビックリマン) Refractive Foil Embossing Surprise Stickers | Bikkuriman (ビックリマン) Silver Foil Stickers Well-known game cards with collectible value, such as "Pokémon Cards" or "Yu-Gi-Oh! Cards," often release rarer cards to enhance their collectible value. These rare cards not only feature unique character designs and abilities but also incorporate special printing techniques to increase their sense of value and rarity. Holo Card | Foil Card Holo Cards feature striking light and shadow effects, making them much easier to identify compared to standard color printing. Localized white ink printing can block the metallic texture in specific areas, enhancing color saturation. The shimmering holographic effect and colorful textures alternate, creating a more dynamic and rich design. Digital Foil Stamping Digital foil stamping adds printing on top of the foil, resulting in more varied color effects beyond just gold. It allows for the printing of special metallic colors (such as rose gold, metallic blue, or metallic pink) and even gradient metallic colors, which are effects that traditional foil stamping cannot achieve. Special Ink Printing When people hear "special ink," they often think of "anti-counterfeiting," but that's not always the case! For instance, photochromic ink and thermochromic ink not only make cards interactive and more appealing for collectors but also add to the cards' rarity and value due to the unique printing techniques involved. Photochromic ink requires exposure to sunlight to reveal vibrant colors or hidden patterns. Holographic Surprise Stickers | Bikkuriman (ビックリマン) Bikkuriman (ビックリマン) is a chocolate candy produced by Lotte in Japan, famous for the "surprise stickers" that come with it. The product uses both common and rare stickers to attract consumers. Common versions are usually simple color prints, while the rare ones are most often holographic stickers! Holographic stickers are characterized by the flickering light and shadow or a 3D effect, while color printing can further enhance the vibrancy of the colors. Character information can be printed on the back of the stickers. Refractive Foil Embossing Surprise Stickers | Bikkuriman (ビックリマン) Holo Solution developed surprise stickers using "Refractive Foil Embossing" technology. The texture is different from that of holographic stickers and is tactile, giving surprise stickers a wider range of expressions. Silver Foil Stickers | Metallic Texture Stickers These silver foil stickers incorporate various printing techniques to create a unique metallic texture. Available in glossy, matte, and grayscale finishes, they deliver intricate details and refined designs even without vibrant colors. Ideal for premium packaging and brand identity.

When you touch a printed surface, hidden patterns appear—this is how most designers imagine thermochromic ink. However, since body temperature and room temperature are quite close, the color-changing effect is often less pronounced. In hot weather, thermochromic ink may change color before being touched, while in cold weather, your hands may be too cool to trigger the change effectively. This is one of the biggest challenges in thermochromic ink design. So, how should thermochromic ink be used effectively? Let’s explore its principles, real-world applications, and design insights to spark creativity. Common Applications of Thermochromic Ink in Printing Thermochromic ink is widely used in various printed products. Many people have encountered it, perhaps unknowingly. A classic example is the once-popular sticker on lighters featuring swimsuit models—when heated with another lighter, the swimsuit would disappear, revealing the model’s body underneath. Another example is urinal deodorizer balls commonly found in public restrooms, which change color upon contact with warm liquid. Some coffee mugs also use thermochromic ink, revealing hidden designs when filled with hot water. A highly successful and well-known product utilizing this technology is the erasable pen—friction from rubbing generates heat, turning the ink from colored to transparent. You can even place the writing in an oven to make the ink disappear or put it in a freezer to restore it! Designing Thermochromic Ink for Effective Use While many thermochromic ink applications are successful, their use remains relatively niche due to one key factor: temperature change. Successful applications integrate thermochromic ink in scenarios where temperature shifts naturally occur. Erasable Pens: These pens rely on friction-generated heat. However, designers must consider factors such as the amount of heat needed, the best materials for generating heat, and the risk of the ink disappearing at high room temperatures. Color-Changing Mugs: This is an ideal use case because pouring hot water creates a significant temperature difference, ensuring a clear color change. Lighter Stickers: By heating the sticker with another lighter, users can quickly see the effect, adding an interactive and social element. Urinal Deodorizer Balls: Since urine temperature is typically higher than body temperature, the color change effect is more noticeable than when using just hand warmth. "Invisible Books" in Temples: Some temples print fortunes on paper using thermochromic ink, requiring heat from a candle flame to reveal the text, creating a mystical experience. Key Factors Affecting Thermochromic Ink Performance The greatest challenge in designing thermochromic ink applications is ensuring a noticeable temperature change within a reasonable context. Touch-Activated Color-Changing Cards: This is a popular idea because it requires no additional tools—just body heat. However, body temperature is often too close to room temperature, making the effect inconsistent. To improve it, designers should consider using these products in air-conditioned environments, where the temperature difference is greater. Alternative heat sources like breath, friction, or essential oil warmers can enhance the effect. Temperature-Sensitive Baby Bottle Stickers: These stickers indicate if milk is too hot, preventing burns. While useful for first-time parents, most quickly learn the right water temperature, making the product less essential over time. How Thermochromic Ink Works Why Are Most Thermochromic Inks Dark-Colored? Most thermochromic inks are reversible, meaning they can return to their original state when cooled. Typically, they are designed to be colored at lower temperatures and become transparent at higher temperatures. This allows them to function as a "masking layer," revealing printed colors beneath when heated. Dark colors, especially black, provide the best coverage. Other colors exist but are less effective at blocking underlying designs, making them less popular. It's also important to note that thermochromic ink does not change color instantly—it gradually shifts with temperature. Additionally, the temperature required to revert the color is often lower than the activation temperature, which can impact its visibility. What Is Irreversible Thermochromic Ink? Unlike reversible thermochromic ink, irreversible ink changes color permanently when exposed to high temperatures. This makes it ideal for temperature indicators, such as ensuring products haven’t been exposed to excessive heat during shipping. It’s also useful for tamper-evident security labels that prevent unauthorized resealing of packaging. Creating Innovative Thermochromic Ink Products Since body temperature alone is often insufficient to trigger a strong color change, innovative applications should focus on designing scenarios where temperature variations are more pronounced. "Ice Book" – Interactive Children's Book Instead of relying on body heat, this book is stored in the freezer. When taken out and exposed to breath or hand warmth, illustrations vanish, symbolizing the effects of global warming. Unlike typical thermochromic ink products that reveal colors when heated, this design does the opposite—starting with vibrant colors in cold conditions and disappearing when warmed. (image source: internet) "Zonzen Yakiniku" Heat-Activated Menu This restaurant menu is black at room temperature, showing only the gold foil logo. When placed on a grill, the menu reveals its hidden text, perfectly integrating the experience with the dining environment. This creative use of thermochromic ink enhances customer engagement. Thermochromic ink is a fascinating material, but its effectiveness depends on carefully designed temperature-changing scenarios. Instead of relying solely on body heat, exploring unique heating or cooling methods can lead to more impactful and engaging applications. Want to learn more about thermochromic ink applications? Contact us to discuss your printing needs!

Using anti-counterfeiting design techniques or software to make the anti-counterfeiting patterns can also have good anti-counterfeiting effects in general printing solutions. It goes without saying that the anti-counterfeiting pattern designs combined with the special inks or laser anti-counterfeiting effects can reach an even higher anti-counterfeiting level. You may evaluate your budgets for the anti-counterfeiting designs depending on the commodity values and prices. The following are a list of various anti-counterfeiting pattern designs to summarize their particularities. 1.Moire There exist implicit moire pattern that naked eyes can only see the sole color blocks, while the hidden patterns can be seen through exclusive inspection filters. 2.Anti-copying patterns There are many ways to achieve anti-copy purpose, we can using hologram hot stamp as well as anti-copy patterns. Please refer to the left figure, which is the original one. We only see the gray shading, and specific patterns on it, and COPY VOID text would be generated in the copied sheets (please refer to the right figure). COPY VOID text can also be customized. Anti-copy pattern do not need special ink, it offers high-technology security effect with economical price. 3.Guilloche Pattern The anti-counterfeiting shadings such as fractal, relief, engraving, and anti-copying types, etc. can be made with extremely complicated lines or pattern variations via specific mathematic logic algorithms. Not only difficult to fake, such design characteristics have well become unique esthetics of the security category products. The only possibility for copying is to imitate and draw thoroughly after blowing up, but it is extremely difficult. 4.Micro text (fine characters, extremely tiny characters) Micro text is a very simple and effective means of anti-counterfeiting measure. The printing equipment needs to be adjusted to the most precise status for printing extremely small characters. The small characters can be hidden at wherever places not easy to find, so that counterfeiters are not able to forge, and let alone re-producing through copying. For the current printing level’s regard, whatever fonts smaller than 0.3mm (1pt) are classified as micro text, which needs to be assisted by magnifying glass for viewing clearly. It depends on the printing condition differences, there surely are other methods for making even smaller characters, but there could be different constrains accordingly. 5.Stroke reduction in words Anti counterfeiting through stroke reduction in words - randomly reduce the strokes of the words. Only the upstream co-workers get to know such secret anti-counterfeiting measure, and the illegal counterfeiters cannot find such small details easily. 6.Positioned emboss Positioned emboss-similar to what from the stamping effect. In addition to what colors are able to bring us, it also enriches the textures of paper with introverted and tactile sensations. In the securities or supporting documents the metal stamp marks also imply public recognition of justice and credibility. 7.Relief Engraving Printing Pattern & Engraving security effect Engraving security effect – please refer to the above figure, the looming building behind Holo Solution logo is composed of a series of dense lines, and the looming effect is resulted from complex combinations in the thickness variations of the lines. Relief engraving printing - the complex changes through thin or bold curved lines have been used which come up with specific patterns that it not only creates quality textures with authority, the redrawing process also make it difficult to forge. 8.Watermarking Watermarking-through two-color printing, anti-copying can create the watermark effect, and that makes replication even more difficult. 9.Latent image security Utilize the different reflection angles from different inks, latent image anti-counterfeiting effects can be made that the hidden patterns are clearly visible only at certain rotating angles. Such anti-counterfeiting effects can only be made through special processes. The anti-counterfeiting level is high, and easy for the consumers to identify. 10.Changeable Serial Number, QR Code & Bar Code Each printout has a unique identity number, which is convenient for management of its whereabouts or the recording of the timeframe, as well as the management on the production, product and distributors. There is certain threshold on variability in printing, and it is also a basic and effective way for anti-counterfeiting. Because of its variability, the counterfeiters cannot figure it out, and for the sake of its uniqueness, the original manufacturer can easily detect duplicates. 11. Dynamic characters, gray-scale varying serial numbers The hidden specific mathematical logics, rules of the dynamic characters definitions are solely controlled by the original manufacturer; and on the other hand, these complex logical changes cannot be edited one by one. It is almost impossible for the counterfeiters to figure out the rules if we make the designs complicated enough, and not to mention anti-counterfeiting. Gray-scale varying serial numbers: The numbers in the above figure are not just unique, and the combinations of the gray scales are also different. Only the original manufacturer knows the rules and the reference database. Random-highlight type of serial numbers: The red characters in each serial number are in different positions, and the red characters in the QR Code swill correspond to the red characters in the serial numbers. 12. Anti-counterfeiting paper The papers themselves have the anti-counterfeiting effects already, but if the anti-counterfeiting effects are to be done in the process of paper-making, the considerable batch quantities will definitely deserve a second thought. We would recommend to use our public-version anti-counterfeiting papers, and that way you may easily benefit from their good anti-counterfeiting effects at small quantities. The authenticity of Holo Solution Inc.'s anti-counterfeiting papers can be easily identified, as the effects of watermarking can be seen with relevant back light. They have both explicit and implicit anti-counterfeiting effects. The fluorescent color filaments embedded in the paper are visible to the naked eye, and the hidden fluorescent filaments will illuminate under the UV light of specific wavelength range.

What is Photochromic Ink? Photochromic ink appears transparent indoors but changes to a specific color when exposed to sunlight or UV light, maintaining its color for a period before fading. This ink absorbs UV rays from sunlight, so it also reacts under UV lamps. Since indoor lighting contains minimal UV, the color-changing effect is not activated. However, because some UV is still present indoors, the ink may appear faintly colored instead of completely transparent. Applications & Creative Uses of Photochromic Ink Photochromic ink can be used to create small cards that roughly indicate the UV intensity in an environment. It is also popular in creative products like postcards, stickers, and novelty items, adding an interactive element. For example, some customers design postcards where leaf patterns only become visible under sunlight. Others use it in book printing as a fun way to encourage people to read more—and go outdoors more often! Photochromic Ink × Innovative Beverage Cup Designs Some printing companies have integrated photochromic ink into drink cup designs, featuring floral patterns that appear in vibrant red when exposed to sunlight—an eye-catching marketing gimmick. ( Please note that we currently do not offer photochromic ink printing for beverage cups. Thank you for your understanding. )

What is Invisible Fluorescent Ink? Invisible fluorescent ink is transparent and colorless under natural light. However, when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, such as a banknote verification lamp, it reveals specific colors and printed patterns. The advantages of using this ink for anti-counterfeiting purposes include: Difficult to detect under natural light, providing a hidden effect Prevents scanning and photocopying Easy to verify authenticity Color-Changing Effects of Invisible Fluorescent Ink Visible fluorescent inks display specific colors under natural light, such as fluorescent yellow or fluorescent green. In contrast, invisible fluorescent ink remains transparent and colorless under natural light and only reveals its specific color under UV light. Black-to-Color Fluorescent Ink This type of fluorescent ink appears black under natural light but reveals a specific color when exposed to UV light. It is relatively rare and can mislead counterfeiters into thinking it is standard black ink printing. Anti-Counterfeiting Applications of Invisible Fluorescent Ink Printing invisible patterns onto printed materials allows for easy authentication using a handheld UV lamp. Since the ink remains invisible under natural light, it possesses anti-copy and anti-scan properties. Printing “serial numbers” can help prevent unauthorized product resale. Invisible numbering can be hidden in locations unknown to distributors. If a distributor lowers prices for clearance sales or engages in cross-regional sales that disrupt market order, the issue can be easily traced back to the responsible distribution chain. Applications of Invisible Fluorescent Ink in Creative Products Kazama Yakiniku – The Invisible Magic Menu A restaurant used invisible fluorescent ink to print its menu for a Halloween-themed event, allowing diners to experience the thrill of uncovering a "book of secrets" during their meal. Ming Chi University’s Exploration Team – Discovering Taiwan’s Natural Beauty A poster design incorporating dual-color invisible fluorescent ink provides an interactive "exploration"  experience for viewers. Can Invisible Fluorescent Ink Be Used for Color Printing? Most standard prints achieve color effects using CMYK four-color process printing. But can invisible fluorescent ink also create color images? The answer is yes! Invisible fluorescent ink utilizes RGB overprinting to create color images, which follows a different logic from CMYK color separation and overprinting. Although color images can be printed, factors such as light sources and materials make it challenging to maintain precise color consistency. The more vibrant the colors, the closer they are to pure RGB hues, resulting in better brightness and clarity. Darker colors or those with low contrast may be harder to recognize. Since the glossiness of ink differs from that of paper, large areas of fluorescent ink printing may still reveal traces of printing under natural light. This is an important consideration when using invisible fluorescent ink. Although termed "invisible," achieving complete invisibility under natural light requires perfect coordination of multiple factors, making it a highly complex process. "Blurred in the Mirror" — Xing Yun Image Creation Exhibition This project, in collaboration with an artist, utilized RGB three-color invisible fluorescent ink overprinting to create hidden images with excellent visibility under UV light. However, the final result did not fully meet expectations due to color discrepancies—the original artwork leaned toward dark red, but the printed version appeared slightly purple. Additionally, the color scheme was relatively monochromatic, making it difficult to highlight the effect of multi-color overprinting. If the color contrast were increased, the outcome would have been more striking. About the Artist – DreamHolic Xing Yun 🔗 https://www.facebook.com/DreamHolicYin/

Have you ever used a sticker that looks ordinary during the day but glows in the dark or in low-light environments? Such stickers are called "glow-in-the-dark stickers." Many of us have fond childhood memories of sticking star-shaped glow-in-the-dark stickers on our bedroom walls, dreaming of a room full of stars. Do you share similar memories? What is the principle behind glow-in-the-dark stickers? #Glow_in_the_dark stickers, also known as #phosphorescent stickers, contain a fluorescent agent on their surface. This agent has the property of storing light. When exposed to an external light source, the agent absorbs and stores the energy. Once the light source is removed, the stored energy is slowly released as fluorescence, causing the sticker to glow in the dark. What is the difference between glow-in-the-dark, photochromic, and fluorescent? Light-storing ability:  Both glow-in-the-dark and photochromic inks can store light. Glow-in-the-dark ink continues to emit light for a while after the light source is removed, while photochromic ink changes color for some time. Fluorescent ink, however, does not store light; its glowing effect disappears immediately once the light source is removed. Self-luminescence:  Glow-in-the-dark and fluorescent inks are considered self-luminous. Glow-in-the-dark ink emits light independently in the dark. Fluorescent ink glows only under ultraviolet light, but it is not reflective—it absorbs UV light and emits visible light, making it self-luminous. Photochromic ink, on the other hand, only changes color and does not emit light. Light absorption:  Photochromic and fluorescent inks absorb ultraviolet light, while glow-in-the-dark ink absorbs white light. For more information, please refer to “ Fluorescent Ink ”  and “ Photochromic Ink .” Glow-in-the-Dark Ink Printing Glow-in-the-dark ink can be printed onto paper cards or stickers using screen printing techniques. The most common glow-in-the-dark ink is yellow-green in color. While other colors of glow-in-the-dark ink do exist, they tend to have lower brightness and are less commonly used in practical applications. By overprinting glow-in-the-dark ink on top of colored prints, it is possible to create multicolored glowing effects. However, this design approach is usually not recommended because the colored ink absorbs light, reducing the brightness of the glow. Printing glow-in-the-dark ink on white areas yields higher brightness. Although it cannot achieve rich color changes in the dark, the contrast between light and dark is its most captivating feature. Printing Glow-in-the-Dark Stickers For glow-in-the-dark stickers, colored printing is applied on pre-coated glow-in-the-dark materials. These materials have a thick phosphorescent coating, resulting in higher brightness and longer-lasting glow compared to screen-printed glow-in-the-dark ink. However, since inks absorb light, it is recommended to avoid printing additional colors over areas where the glow effect is intended, unless using very light colors.

Peel-to-Reveal Card  is a type of double-layered card where each card contains a different prize hidden inside. To reveal the prize, the first layer of the card must be peeled off. Retailers can design the prizes and quantities for each set of Peel-to-Reveal Card, allowing them to manage budgets while utilizing features like "Guaranteed Wins after N Draws" to encourage consumers to draw more cards. The perforated line makes it easy to peel off the card manually, offering a more user-friendly experience compared to scratch-off ink. Do "一番賞Ichiban Kuji" Shops Know Where the Prizes Are? Some online experiments have found that the prize positions in the same batch of cards are identical. Once a retailer finishes opening one set of cards, they can identify the positions of the prizes. This is understandable, as creating completely randomized prize positions for each set would require using a digital printing process, which is unachievable with conventional offset printing methods. However, digital printing for such large-scale products comes with a significant cost. Draw Card Posters An entire set of Draw Cards can be printed on a single large sheet, making it easy to display the remaining prize statuses at a glance. However, if prize positions are required to be randomly distributed, the production process becomes more challenging and costly. Alternatively, each draw card can be printed as an individual small card, similar to scratch-off lottery tickets, and paired with a prize poster. This method ensures that all prizes are accounted for. The more prizes are revealed, the higher the chance of drawing rare prizes like the "A Prize," which can attract more customers to participate in the draw. Separately printed draw cards also carry a risk of cheating, as individual cards can be "hidden" by the retailer. However, if an entire set is purchased as a bundle, such tactics can be easily discovered. In the end, it's a game of cat and mouse, where methods to cheat and counteract are constantly evolving. This dynamic is part of what makes anti-counterfeit printing fascinating!