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Courtney577

: Creating see-through graphics for window decals in Photoshop I would like to create transparent graphics for window decals using Photoshop CS6. The graphics should remain transparent after being

@Courtney577

Posted in: #AdobePhotoshop #Opacity #PrintDesign #Transparency

I would like to create transparent graphics for window decals using Photoshop CS6.

The graphics should remain transparent after being printed on foil. By transparent I mean see-through, e.g. a set of light grey lines that you could actually see through.

I am not asking how to create graphics with no white background, I would like the actual grey line to be semi see-through. Is this as simple as changing the opacity settings and is it something that is even design related or it is something that is done during the printing process itself?

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@Welton168

"Transparency" and "opacity" in DTP terminology is a purely digital term, that only tells you how one image/layer/object will affect another one, when it is on top of another image/layer/object. You are asking to control physical transparency. That is usually done, by printing an extra ink (opaque white) underneath you other colors (or on top, in case of reverse printing). And you obviously need a transparent substrate.

How to prepare the artwork in Photoshop:

Ask you printer if he's capable of printing an opaque white. And if so, how he needs the artwork. He probably wants it like this:

Create a spot channel, and fill it with 100% wherever you need the decal to be opaque. Leave it 0% where it needs to stay transparent.

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@Barnes313

Actually your designs need to be just the opposite and the material needs to be translucent not your designs opacity adjusted. In fact, translucent materials such as (plexiglass, acrylic, lexan) usually get double passes of ink to help with the reflection of light. Printing on translucent material is common in lighted signs. If you can provide an example I know our community will help but at this time all I can suggest is you should be using Illustrator and not Photoshop if you plan on dye cutting a window decal and your opacity needs to be set at 100%.

EDIT:
Also it is a good idea to ask the printer on their preferred method. If you have trouble understanding what they are requesting you can edit your question.

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