First of all, we asked Mr. Hisakawa to prepare design data that has some areas of white color. We printed the data onto transparent media in two ways-without white ink and with white ink.
Mr. Hisakawa shared his impressions with us: "When I compare the printed media with and without white ink, the finishes are totally different from what I expected. The print without white has a translucent quality because the media is transparent. On the other hand, the print that uses white ink is truly opaque. Color vividness and image sharpness have been enhanced thanks to the white ink backing the print. After seeing this result, I believe I'll never print onto transparent media without white ink."
We also tried one more printing as an experiment. First, we replaced some white color areas of the original design with transparent to get a mix of white ink areas and the original media color areas (which were transparent).
Working as "HISSAN DESIGN WORKS", Yusuke Hisakawa is involved across the spectrum of the design business, and focusing on the areas of music and apparel. His focus is always to create art that makes a strong impression on people.
"By not only using white, but also mixing white in the transparent areas in designs, the graphic range can be extended. This is very interesting. Even for colors, their vividness can be enhanced by applying white after the colors and semi-transparent colors, compared to when no white ink is used. If white ink is used appropriately, unique effects can be achieved." The expression ability of white ink is proved.
Regarding the image quality, he told us, "The outcome is more beautiful than I expected. I am surprised. I am very satisfied with the image quality; it has smooth gradations without any color banding".
Design data
When white ink is used under colors (left picture) No white ink used(right pic ture).
The letters at bottom left are printed in white. The stars above are not colored (are transparent).
Perspective effects can be achieved by changing ink use.
"If white and transparent areas are handled well and if the balance of the printed media and the textures or patterns of the display walls is considered, we can get very interesting effects," Mr. Hisakawa said.
The picture at left is printed without white ink. As the background color shows through, the ink color seems faded. On the other hand, the picture at right is transparent media that is printed with white ink under the colors. Vivid and sharp printing is achieved by using high-density white ink in this way.
