Digital MAKIE on Smartphone case

Create image data

Two different image data are needed for the digital MAKIE on smartrphone case.

* On this tutorial, photo data is used. Therefore, Photoshop is used for editing the data. If only vector data such as color logo is used, Illustrator is used for data creation or editing.
When creating the data by Illustrator, assign the black to areas to be applied glitters or foils.

Raster Image Processing

Print image file is rasterized by “RasterLink”

A raster image processor (RIP) converts the image data to an appropriate data format for digital inkjet printing.

Mimaki RasterLink is software RIP that can rasterize the data without a special hardware.
In addition, RasterLink has a variety of tools for optimizing the data for inkjet printing.

Number a jig and a case

To avoid mismatch of color and duotone print results owing to a slight difference in a mounting positions of the jig. Place the case on the same position of the jig through whole print procedures. To identify, assign the same number to the case as the position.
Numbering and positioning are necessary processes for producing high-quality products.

Printing duotone data with primer and white ink

Place the cases on assigned positions and then start printing

Before printing, wipe the surface with a achol swab or cloth to remove fingerprints or dust.
Start print with UJF-3042HG
The white ink is printed first to contrast with black base color, and then the primer is printed.

Necessary tools

No special tool is required.
Tools
・Water-filled basin
・Wiping cloth
・Sponge for cleaning
・Glitters
・Sponge for applying glitters

Gold, silver, pearl and various glitters are sold in the market.

Apply the glitter on the case

Take up glitters onto a sponge and apply it on the case. If the glitters are not applied well, push the sponge on the case.
Note
To prevent fine-grain glitter adhesion on furnitures or clothes, please secure an adequate work space and wear protective gloves and clothes.

Wash excess glitters

Wash the case in the basin after applying sufficient amount of glitters.
Wipe the case well.

Color printing over the glittered case.

After glittering, place the case on the jig and start color printing.
Printed colors on glitters are changed to metallic colors.

Varnish the case with clear ink printing

Print a clear ink for final finish. Print data is the same as used for primer printing.
Clear ink adds protective coating, increases texture and enhances three-dimensional effect.
The finished product surface is very brilliant!
Watch the video below.

Doming finish

Doming: Utilization of liquid resin surface tension

Doming is one of finish technique by utilizing a surface tension of special liquid resin.
Glossy finish and three dimensional effect are obtained when doming resin is used instead of the clear ink.