Selecting the Ideal Lenticular Sheet for Your Inkjet Printer

by
CG Sheng
Co-founder of ViCGI.com

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Overview

In the early days of technology, specifically about two and a half decades ago, lenticular printing was predominantly a darkroom affair, dependent on film. With advancements in computer processing power, memory, graphic applications, and printing devices, lenticular printing has become accessible for use at home or in small businesses. If mass production isn’t your goal, why not delve into Photoshop and enjoy crafting striking lenticular prints?

After our publication regarding the 3D Lenticular Printing Interlacing Algorithm using Photoshop, we were inundated with inquiries about sourcing lenticular sheets. Previously, we endorsed Microlens as a provider, but unfortunately, they ceased operations last April. While companies like Pacur focus on large-scale supply for commercial printers, ViCGI has stepped up to fill the void left by Microlens, catering to enthusiasts by providing lenticular sheets.

Before making a purchase, understanding the specifications of lenticular sheets is crucial. This article aims to guide you through the essential features to consider for your DIY lenticular printing endeavors.

Defining Lenticular Sheets

Lenticular sheets are semi-transparent plastic panels featuring an array of tiny convex lenses on one side and a smooth surface on the opposite side. These lenses are instrumental in transforming a 2D image into an array of dynamic visual effects. As the angle of the lenticular sheet changes, viewers are treated to different visual phenomena.

Key Features of Lenticular Sheets

Crafting an eye-catching lenticular print marries artistic flair with scientific understanding. Selecting the appropriate lens is equally important as opting for captivating visuals. Lenticular sheets, like any plastic product, have specifications tailored for various applications. Below are a few crucial parameters to consider when choosing your lenticular sheet:

1. Material - Lenticular sheets are typically constructed using materials such as Acrylic (PMMA), APET, PETG, Polycarbonate, Polypropylene, PVC, and Polystyrene. For personal projects, Acrylic and APET are advisable choices, despite Acrylic's higher cost, the price difference is not significant for non-commercial applications.
   
   
2. Lens Density - Expressed in LPI (Lines or Lenses per Inch), common options include 10, 15, 20, 30, 40, 42, 60, 75, 100, 161, and 200. For inkjet applications, 60, 40, 30, 15, and 10 are popular choices. The 60 and 40 LPIs are suitable for standard letter-sized prints, while lower LPI options are ideal for larger formats such as posters or signage.
   
   
3. Sheet Thickness - This varies from 0.25mm to 6.3mm and influences the depth of the final image. Generally, a thicker sheet corresponds with a lower LPI.
   
   
4. Viewing Angle - This defines the range within which the lenticular images can be perceived clearly. A narrow viewing angle offers sensitivity to slight movements; conversely, wider angles accommodate larger shifts. Narrow viewing angles are perfect for 3D effects, while wider ones are better suited for animations or flip effects. Typically, thicker lenses have a narrower viewing angle, leading to preference for lower LPI when aiming for 3D impacts.
   
   
5. Optimal Viewing Distance - The separation between the observer and the print is critical. Higher LPI correlates with closer optimal viewing distances, this is essential when selecting the appropriate lenticular sheet for your project.
   
   

   Table 1: LPI, Viewing Angle, and Viewing Distance Overview:

   LPI 10 15 20 30 40 60 75 100 View Angle 48 47 47 49 49 54 49 42 View Distance 10' - 50' 5' - 20' 5' - 20' 3' - 15' 1' - 15' 1' - 10' 6' - 3' 6' - 10'
   
   
6. Transparency - Higher transparency levels translate to clearer visuals, with a minimum transmittance rate of 85% being preferred.
   
   
7. Durability & Stability - Different materials exhibit varying levels of resistance to temperature fluctuations and UV exposure. It's crucial to consider indoor versus outdoor suitability for your project needs.
   
   
8. Compatibility with Printer Resolution - Printer resolutions, particularly those from HP and Canon with multiples of 600 DPI, and Epson at 720 DPI, influence your lenticular sheet selection. For instance, using Epson's 720 DPI, a sheet with 40 LPI divides neatly, whereas a 42 LPI creates complications that can compromise image integrity.

Conclusions

For small-scale inkjet projects, select a lenticular sheet with an LPI of 60 or lower. Moreover, ensure your chosen LPI aligns with your printer's horizontal resolution factors. For HP and Canon printers, LPI options include 60, 50, 40, 30, 20, 15, and 10; for Epson, use 60, 40, 30, 20, 15, and 10.

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Types of Lenticular Lenses

Capture Attention! 3D Lenticular products are the ultimate way to seize customer interest.

Understanding 3D Lenticular Technology

Lenticular technology utilizes specialized lenses to generate printed images that showcase unique illusions or movement when viewed from varying angles.

3D Lenticular Effects

1- 3D Depth: This effect creates the illusion of volume, enabling viewers to perceive three-dimensional images without the need for glass.

2- Flip: The flip effect allows viewers to see multiple images within the same physical print, serving effectively for before-and-after scenarios while reducing advertising costs.

3- Morph: This effect transitions between two different images, enabling dramatic transformations.

4- Animation: Composed of 8-24 sequential frames, this effect produces short video clips as lenticular products, requiring high-definition video under two seconds in length.

5- Zoom: A variant of animation, the zoom effect amplifies objects, making it optimal for logos or brands. Various lenticular lens types exist to meet diverse needs, and selecting the right lens is essential for achieving desired effects.

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