What are lenticulars?

Lennis
January 19, 2009

Did you ever go to the dentist when you were a kid and get those rings with the moving images on them? Or get that prize with a moving image in a box of Cracker Jacks? Those were lenticulars. As an alleged adult I am still intrigued with them. What are they? Lenticulars are made from two or more images that have been sliced into thin vertical segments and then topped with a clear faceted lens that makes them appear to move as you see them from different angles. There are many effects including 3-D, morph, zoom and motion. Modern lenticulars have been around since the 1930s but have seen a comeback recently due to new technology. They can be as small as business cards or poster size. They can have major impact and really stand out. I’ve kept every one I’ve ever received. OK, so I’ve got a collection. eyes

Check out this example from http://www.world3d.com

See how the headline ties nicely with the graphic? One of the best examples in my collection is on a mouse pad with a light bulb that seems to turn on and off as you move around. A word of warning: Lenticular mouse pads don’t work now that most people have mice with lasers. Your mouse jumps or won’t track over the white areas, so avoid lenticulars on mouse pads. One thing to remember, you need to produce a fairly large quantity to make them cost effective. So if you are looking for a way to give you graphic an added depth, get moving and make them lenticulars.

No comments yet.

Leave a Reply

Plain text

  • No HTML tags allowed.
  • Web page addresses and e-mail addresses turn into links automatically.
  • Lines and paragraphs break automatically.

What is the PsPrint Blog??

The PsPrint Blog is a resource for graphic designers, freelancers, small business owners and fans of print marketing. You'll find helpful techniques on printing everything there is to print, including business cards, postcards, brochures, stickers, invitations, greeting cards, door hangers, magnets and more. The PsPrint Blog shares creative ways to improve your design and layout skills, and useful tips for marketing your business in any medium. We also like to have a little fun, sharing design inspiration and spotlighting some our favorite customers' printed pieces in our "Hot Off the Press" series.