Visualis3R

Render the extraordinary


     

Render the extraordinary

 

User Manual

Settings and Controls
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Visualis3R User Manual

Render the extraordinary

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  • The Basics
    This section of the Visualis3R user manual introduces the core features and navigation of the Visualis3R software, also known as v3R. Designed to be user-friendly, it allows you to import PDF files, configure color separations, adjust substrates, and use environmental controls to visualize print effects like glitter, foil, and varnish.

    Overview
    Visualis3R is a powerful tool for designers and print professionals to simulate print embellishments and substrates, enabling accurate previews without costly physical proofs. Key features include importing PDF files, managing color separations, adjusting substrate properties, navigating the design, and capturing images or videos. The software supports a variety of predefined layer names (e.g., Duplo, glitter, foil) and allows customization through presets.

    Getting Started

    1. Importing a PDF File
    • Select a File: Open Visualis3R and choose a PDF file containing your design.
    • File Ripping: The software rips the PDF into grayscale TIFFs for each separation (e.g., CMYK, glitter, foil).
      • Resolution: For small designs or fine details (e.g., text), use the Increase Resolution button to enhance clarity. Note that higher resolutions may increase ripping time for larger files.

    2. Navigating the Interface
    • Color Separations Panel: Displays all layers in the PDF (e.g., CMYK, Duplo, glitter, red foil, silver). Layers with a warning triangle require configuration.
    • Substrate Controls: Allows selection and customization of the base material (e.g., gloss-coated paper, foil, clear material).
    • Environmental Controls: Adjusts lighting and background to simulate different viewing conditions.
    • Settings Menu: Located in the top right, allows you to upload a logo, add text (e.g., copyright, proof details), and toggle date display.
    • Support and Training: Access support via the Support button (bottom) to open a web browser for contacting the Visualis3R team or viewing training videos.

    3. Configuring Color Separations
    Each layer in the PDF can be customized to simulate specific print effects. Layers with undefined spot colors (e.g., “Glitter,” “Red Foil”) require configuration.
    • Glitter Layer:
      • Select the “Glitter” layer and choose a color (e.g., gold glitter, silvery gray).
      • Adjust properties:
        • Particle Size: Increase for larger glitter particles, decrease for finer ones.
        • Intensity: Control brightness of the glitter effect.
      • Example: Set the glitter to gold with medium particle size and high intensity for a sparkling greeting card effect.
      • Save as a preset (e.g., “Gold Glitter”) for reuse.
    • Foil Layer:
      • Select the foil layer to switch between foils type (e.g., red, bronze, silver).
      • Adjust properties:
        • Texture: Increase for a dimpled effect, decrease for a smooth finish.
        • Metalness: Controls grayness (higher for a darker contrasting look, lower for silvery shine).
        • Reflection: Adjusts shininess of the foil.
        • Foil Stamping: Enable for a slight embossed edge effect.
      • Example: Set to red foil with low texture and high reflection, or test bronze foil to explore alternatives.
      • Save as a preset (e.g., “My Red Foil”).
    • Metallic Layers:
      • Select the metallic layer (e.g., “Silver,” “Gold”) and configure the metallic effect.
      • Adjust properties:
        • Opacity: If required you can decrease for a lighter metallic.
        • Metalness: Controls grayness and reflectivity.
        • Roughness: Adds texture to the silver.
        • Flake Size: Adds a glittery sparkle effect.
      • Example: Set silver with subtle flake size and high opacity for a realistic metallic accent.
      • Save as a preset (e.g., “Silver Toner”).
    • Varnish — for example, Duplo (3D Varnish) Layer:
      • Select the “Duplo” layer for a 3D sculpted varnish effect.
      • Adjust properties:
        • Height: Controls the raised effect (higher for more pronounced varnish).
        • Bevel: Adjusts edge sharpness.
        • Gloss Level: Sets shininess (e.g., flat varnish vs. sculpted varnish).
      • Example: Reduce height and gloss for a subtle varnish effect on the greeting card.
      • Save as a preset (e.g., “Duplo High build Varnish”).
    • CMYK Layers:
      • Enable cyan, magenta, yellow, and black layers for the main design.
      • Toggle on/off to check interactions with embellishments.
    • Layer Management:
      • Reorder layers (move up, down, to top, or bottom) to control stacking (e.g., place glitter above CMYK).
      • Delete unnecessary layers if needed.
      • Reset to defaults if settings are incorrect or unclear.

    4. Configuring Substrates
    • Select a Substrate: Choose from options like gloss-coated paper, uncoated paper, foil, clear material, or rainbow holographic.
      • Gloss-Coated Paper: Enhances color vibrancy.
      • Uncoated Paper: Simulates ink absorption, slightly dulling colors (adjust absorption slider to compensate).
      • Foil: Use as a base for foil substrate printing.
      • Clear Material: e.g., For labels, window cling etc.
      • Rainbow Holographic: Adds color-shifting effects (see Base Materials tutorial for details).
    • Adjust Properties: Fine-tune texture, metalness, or ink absorption for each substrate.
    • Reset to Default: Reverts to gloss-coated paper if settings are incorrect.

    5. Environmental Controls
    • Lighting and Rotation:
      • Adjust room lighting to change how embellishments (e.g., glitter, foil) reflect light.
      • Rotate the design plane to view effects from different angles.
    • Background Options:
      • Gray: Default neutral background to avoid color contamination.
      • Indoor/Outdoor: Simulates different lighting conditions (indoor for better contrast, outdoor for brighter light).
      • White/Black: Test designs against different backgrounds.
      • Example: Use a gray background with indoor lighting for neutral previews, or switch to white for video captures.
    • Navigation:
      • Space Key: Freely move the design.
      • Option Key: Pan on the y-axis (yaw).
      • Shift Key: Pan on the x-axis.
      • Mouse Wheel: Zoom in/out.
      • Click and Drag: Rotate the design freely.
      • Reset View: Returns to a straight portrait view.

    6. Settings Menu
    • Logo: Upload a logo and toggle it on/off for image/video captures.
    • Text/Tagline: Add custom text (e.g., “Birthday Card 1.2,” or “Visualis3R Copyright 2025”).
    • Date: Enable to include the date in captures.
    • Text Color: Adjust text color (e.g., black for white backgrounds, red for emphasis) to ensure visibility.

    7. Additional Features
    • UV Invisible: If the file includes invisible ink layers, enable the UV Light option to simulate glowing effects (see Invisible Ink tutorial).
    • Image/Video Capture: Capture transparent PNGs or WebM videos to showcase designs (see Image & Video Capture tutorial).
      • Example: Capture a PNG of the greeting card to place on a website or a WebM video to show glitter and foil effects in motion.
    • Increase Resolution button: Increase resolution for fine details, but note that sliders (e.g., depth, reflection) may behave differently at higher resolutions.

    8. Swatch Palette
    • Download the Visualis3R swatch palette from the website, which includes predefined names for layers (e.g., orange, green, blue, red, violet, metallic silver, metallic gold, Duplo, Scodex, varnish, spot coating, UV coating etc).
    • Use the Visualis3R palette to ensure layers are recognized correctly in Visualis3R.

    Design Considerations
    • Layer Configuration: Layers with warning triangles are warnings that your action is needed, such as setting the color or selecting a preset. (e.g., glitter color, foil type).
    • Presets: Save settings to streamline workflows and ensure consistency.
    • Substrate Impact: Test different substrates (e.g., uncoated vs. gloss-coated) to see how they affect CMYK and embellishment appearance.
    • Lighting and Background: Use gray backgrounds for neutral previews and adjust lighting to highlight effects like glitter or foil.
    • Applications: Use Visualis3R for greeting cards, labels, or packaging to visualize effects before printing, saving time and proofing costs.
    • File Management: For complex files, ensure correct layer order (e.g., glitter above CMYK) and save presets to avoid reconfiguring.

    Support and Updates
    • Technical Support: Free support is available via the Support button, which opens a contact form on the Visualis3R website. Submit PDF files for review if issues arise.
    • Training: Access tutorial videos via the Training section for detailed guidance on features.
    • Updates: Software updates and upgrades are free during your subscription period.
    • Bug Reporting: Report bugs or issues to the support team, ideally with the PDF file, for tailored assistance or tutorial videos.

    Summary
    Visualis3R provides an intuitive platform for visualizing print embellishments like glitter, foil, and varnish. Import PDF files, configure color separations, adjust substrates, and use environmental controls to create realistic previews. Navigate with keyboard shortcuts, save presets for efficiency, and capture images or videos for client approvals or marketing. With free support and updates, Visualis3R empowers designers to maintain creative control and produce accurate designs without costly proofs.

    For additional guidance, refer to the accompanying tutorial videos on specific features like glitter, foil, and image capture.
  • Foiling
    This section of the Visualis3R user manual covers the Foils feature, which simulates metallic and holographic foil effects used in printing, such as on business cards or packaging. Foils can be applied as a layer (e.g., foil stamping) or as a base material, with customizable properties like color, texture, and reflectivity.

    Overview
    The Foils feature in Visualis3R allows you to simulate various foil types, including gold, silver, bronze, and rainbow holographic, to create luxurious and eye-catching designs. You can adjust properties like frequency, vibrancy, and patchiness for holographic foils, or texture and metalness for metallic foils, to match real-world samples. This feature enables designers to experiment with foil effects and preview them accurately, reducing the need for costly physical proofs.

    Setting Up Foils
    Foils are applied as spot color layers or base materials and configured in Visualis3R to simulate their appearance. Follow these steps to set up and visualize foil effects for a business card design.

    File Setup in Design Software
    1. Create Foil Layers:
      • In your design software (e.g., Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop), create spot color layers for foils, such as “Gold Foil,” “Silver Foil,” or “Rainbow Foil.”
      • Include additional layers as needed:
        • Mask: To define the die-cut shape (e.g., business card outline).
        • Emboss: For raised effects (optional).
      • Example: For a business card, create layers for gold foil, silver foil, and rainbow holographic foil, plus a mask for the card shape.
    2. Save the File:
      • Export the design as a PDF to preserve layers and spot colors for import into Visualis3R.

    Configuring in Visualis3R
    1. Import the File:
      • Open Visualis3R and load the PDF file.
      • The software rips the file into grayscale TIFFs, recognizing spot color layers (e.g., “Gold Foil,” “Rainbow Foil”).
      • Resolution: If the design appears pixelated (common for small items like business cards), click the Increase Resolution button to re-rip the file at a higher resolution. Note that larger files or higher resolutions may increase ripping time.
    2. Configure the Mask Layer (Optional):
      • If a mask layer (e.g., for a die-cut business card) is included, enable it to define the visible area.
    3. Configure Foil Layers:
      • Rainbow Holographic Foil:
        • Select the “Rainbow Foil” layer (marked with a warning triangle if unconfigured).
        • Adjust properties:
          • Frequency: Controls the speed of color changes (lower for slower transitions, e.g., copper to green; higher for faster shifts).
          • Craziness: Adjusts the randomness of the holographic pattern (higher for a chaotic effect, lower for a flat color).
          • Vibrancy: Sets color saturation (higher for more vivid colors).
          • Patchiness: Introduces a silver, cloud-like effect to mimic real holographic foils (lower for more color, higher for more silver).
          • Metalness: Adjusts the grayness of the foil (higher for a darker, contrasting look; lower for brighter).
          • Reflection Strength: Controls how much room lighting reflects off the foil.
        • Example: For a business card, set patchiness to ~50% for a balance of silver and rainbow effects, and adjust frequency for a slow color shift.
      • Metallic Foil (e.g., Gold, Silver, Bronze):
        • Select the foil layer (e.g., “Gold Foil”).
        • Choose a predefined foil type (e.g., gold, silver, bronze) or customize the color using the Color Picker to match a sample.
        • Adjust properties:
          • Texture: Increase for a dimpled effect or set to zero for a smooth finish.
          • Metalness: Adjusts the metallic greyness (higher for more contrast, lower for a shiny effect).
          • Reflection: Controls light reflection intensity.
        • Enable Foil Stamping mode for a slight embossed edge effect, mimicking real foil stamping.
    4. Configure the Substrate (Optional):
      • Use a foil as a base material instead of a layer:
        • Go to Substrate Controls and select “Foil”.
        • Adjust texture, metalness, and reflection to match the desired material.
      • Print additional layers (e.g., CMYK, foil stamping) over the foil substrate for complex effects.
    5. Preview and Adjust:
      • Use Environmental Controls to adjust lighting and background to highlight foil effects:
        • Example: Move lighting to emphasize the rainbow holographic color shifts or metallic foil’s sheen.
      • Zoom in to check details, such as the dimpled texture of a gold foil or the patchiness of a holographic effect.
      • Adjust sliders (e.g., frequency, patchiness, reflection) to find the “sweet spot” for realism.
    6. Save Presets:
      • Save foil settings (e.g., “Rainbow Holographic Business Card,” “Custom Bronze Foil”) as presets for reuse.
      • Export presets as JSON files to share with clients or printers for consistent settings.

    Design Considerations
    • Foil Types:
      • Rainbow Holographic: Adjust frequency, craziness, and patchiness to mimic real holographic foils, which appear silver until moved or dented to reveal color shifts.
      • Metallic Foils: Use predefined colors (gold, silver, bronze) or customize via the Color Picker to match samples from suppliers like FoilCo.
    • Resolution: Increase resolution for small designs (e.g., business cards) with fine details to avoid pixelation, but note longer ripping times for larger files.
    • Foil Stamping: Enable foil stamping mode for a realistic embossed edge, especially for gold or silver foils.
    • Real-World Matching: Obtain physical foil samples from suppliers (e.g., FoilCo) and adjust settings (color, texture, metalness) to match for accurate previews.
    • Cost Savings: Use Visualis3R to experiment with foil effects, avoiding expensive physical proofs for foil stamping or holographic finishes.
    • Applications: Apply foils to business cards, packaging, or labels for a premium, luxurious appearance.


    Summary
    The Foils feature in Visualis3R enables you to simulate metallic and rainbow holographic foils for designs like business cards or packaging. Configure foil layers or substrates, adjust properties like frequency, patchiness, and texture, and combine with embossing or other effects for realistic previews. Save presets for efficiency, match settings to physical samples, and use environmental controls to fine-tune lighting. This feature empowers designers to visualize luxurious foil effects, maintain creative control, and reduce proofing costs.

    For additional guidance, refer to the accompanying tutorial videos on foils and related embellishments.
  • Varnish and Coatings
    This section of the Visualis3R user manual covers the Varnish and Coatings feature, which simulates post-finishing techniques like clear toner, varnish, and 3D sculptured varnishes. These coatings add protective or decorative effects, such as gloss, matte, or 3D tactile finishes, and can be customized to match specific printing processes.

    Overview
    The Varnish and Coatings feature in Visualis3R enables you to simulate various coatings, including flat clear toner, 3D sculpted varnish (e.g., Duplo) used in offset or digital printing (e.g., Ricoh Pro Series, Fujifilm Revoria, Xerox Iridesse). You can adjust gloss levels, texture, and varnish depth, and combine coatings with other embellishments like foil or spot colors to create realistic previews, reducing the need for costly physical proofs.

    Setting Up Varnish and Coatings
    Varnish and coating effects are applied as spot color layers and configured in Visualis3R to match the desired printing process. Follow these steps to set up and visualize these effects.

    File Setup in Design Software

    1. Create Coating Layers:
      • In your design software (e.g., Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop), create spot color layers for coatings, such as “Clear” (for clear toner) or “Duplo” (for 3D sculpted varnish).
      • Example: For a design, create a “Clear” layer for a flat glossy coating and a “Duplo” layer for a raised, tactile varnish.
    2. Save the File:
      • Export the design as a PDF to preserve layers and spot colors for import into Visualis3R.

    Configuring in Visualis3R
    1. Import the File:
      • Open Visualis3R and load the PDF file.
      • The software rips the file, recognizing spot color layers (e.g., “Clear,” “Duplo”).
    2. Configure Coating Layers:
      • Clear Toner:
        • Select the “Clear” layer and assign a clear toner effect.
        • Adjust properties:
          • Gloss Level: Increase for a glossy finish, decrease for a matte effect.
          • Texture: Add slight texture for realism (e.g., to mimic digital press clear toner like Ricoh or Xerox).
      • Duplo (3D Sculpted Varnish):
        • Select the “Duplo” layer for a raised, tactile varnish effect.
        • Adjust properties:
          • Varnish Depth: Increase for a pronounced 3D effect (e.g., braille-like texture), decrease for a flatter varnish.
          • Bevel: Controls edge sharpness.
          • Gloss Level: Sets shininess (higher for glossy, lower for matte).
          • Sculpted Varnish Option: Toggle on for 3D effect or off for a flat varnish/coating.
        • Example: Apply Duplo varnish to create a raised, glossy effect, then toggle off sculpted varnish to simulate a flat clear toner.
      • Reset to defaults if settings need to be reverted to the layer’s preferred configuration.
    3. Preview and Adjust:
      • Use Environmental Controls to adjust lighting to highlight coating effects (e.g., gloss shimmer, 3D varnish depth).
      • Toggle layers to isolate coatings or view combined effects with foil and spot colors.
      • Example: Zoom in to check the tactile effect of Duplo varnish or the subtle gloss of clear toner on the orange pattern.
    4. Save Presets:
      • Save as presets (e.g., “Clear Toner Orange Pattern,” “Duplo Black Paper”) for reuse.
      • Export presets as JSON files to share with clients or printers for consistent settings.

    Design Considerations
    • Coating Types:
      • Clear Toner: Flat, glossy effect (e.g., Ricoh, Xerox); adjust gloss level and texture to match digital press samples.
      • Duplo Varnish: 3D sculpted, tactile effect; toggle sculpted varnish on/off to switch between raised and flat coatings.
      • Lamination: See Lamination tutorial for gloss or matte lamination effects.
    • Real-World Matching: Obtain physical samples from print service providers or press manufacturers to fine-tune gloss, texture, or varnish depth settings.
    • Layer Order: Place coatings above spot colors or CMYK for visibility, but adjust based on the printing process.
    • Substrate Impact: Test coatings on different substrates (e.g., black paper for contrast, clear material for transparency) to see how they interact.
    • Fail-Safes: Toggle between sculpted and flat varnish to explore alternatives without resetting the file.
    • Applications: Use coatings for protective or decorative effects on packaging, labels, or prints, enhancing tactile or visual appeal.
    • Cost Savings: Visualize coatings in Visualis3R to avoid expensive physical proofs.

    Summary
    The Varnish and Coatings feature in Visualis3R simulates clear toner, 3D sculpted varnish (e.g., Duplo), and lamination for protective or decorative print effects. Configure spot color layers like clear toner or Duplo, adjust gloss, texture, and varnish depth, and combine with foil or brand colors for realistic previews. Test on various substrates, save presets for efficiency, and use environmental controls to fine-tune lighting. This feature empowers designers to visualize coatings accurately, maintaining creative control and reducing proofing costs.

    For additional guidance, refer to the accompanying tutorial videos on varnish, coatings, and related embellishments.
  • Metallic inks and toners
    This section of the Visualis3R user manual covers the Metallic Ink & Toners feature, which simulates the luxurious and reflective effects of metallic inks used in printing applications like packaging, business cards, or credit cards.

    Overview
    The Metallic Ink & Toners feature in Visualis3R enables you to create and preview metallic effects, such as gold, silver, or custom metallic colors, on various substrates. You can fine-tune properties like flake size, highlights, and shadows, and combine metallic inks with holograms, embossing, and foil for realistic visualizations. This feature empowers designers to experiment with high-end finishes without costly physical proofs.

    Setting Up Metallic Ink & Toners
    Metallic inks are applied as spot color layers and configured in Visualis3R to simulate their reflective properties. Follow these steps to set up and visualize metallic ink effects, using a credit card design as an example.

    File Setup in Design Software
    1. Create Metallic Layers:
      • In your design software (e.g., Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop), create spot color layers for metallic inks, such as “Gold,” “Silver,”.
    2. Save the File:
      • Export the design as a PDF to preserve layers and spot colors for import into Visualis3R.

    Configuring in Visualis3R
    1. Import the File:
      • Open Visualis3R and load the PDF file.
      • The software rips the file, recognizing spot color layers (e.g., “Gold,” “Silver,”) and marking unconfigured layers with a warning triangle.
    2. Configure Metallic Ink Layers:
      • Gold Layer:
        • Select the “Gold” layer and assign a gold metallic effect.
        • Adjust properties:
          • Color: Fine-tune the gold shade (e.g., deeper or lighter) to match a specific sample.
          • Flake Size: Add metallic flake for texture (e.g., high pixel flake for a credit card’s sparkly effect) or set to zero for a smooth, shiny finish (e.g., Flexo Press or Gravure Press).
        • Example: For an American Express-style gold card, add a slight flake for realism.
      • Silver Layer:
        • Select the “Silver” layer and assign a silver metallic effect.
        • Adjust flake size for a subtle sparkle (e.g., mimicking a Ricoh printer’s silver toner).
        • Example: Apply a subtle sparkle to simulate a silver accent on the card.
    3. Configure Custom Spot Metallic Colors:
      • For unrecognized spot colors (e.g., “Pantone 8005”), select the layer (marked with a warning triangle).
      • Manually input the RGB values for the color (e.g., search Google for Pantone 8005’s RGB equivalent).
      • Enable the Metallic option to convert the color to a metallic effect.
      • Adjust flake size or intensity to add sparkle or keep it smooth.
    4. Preview and Adjust:
      • Use Environmental Controls to adjust lighting and shading to highlight metallic effects.
        • Example: Move lighting to emphasize the sparkle of metallic flake.
    5. Save Presets:
      • Save metallic ink presets (e.g., “Gold Credit Card”) for reuse.

    Design Considerations
    • Metallic Ink Properties:
      • Use flake size to add texture (e.g., high pixel flake for credit cards, zero for smooth Flexo Press-like finishes).
      • Adjust color to match specific metallic shades (e.g., deeper gold or subtle silver sparkle).
    • Custom Colors: Manually input RGB values for brand colors and enable the metallic option for custom effects.
    • Cost Savings: Use Visualis3R to preview metallic effects, avoiding expensive proofs for complex finishes like foil stamping or metallic inks.
    • Applications: Apply metallic inks to packaging, business cards, or credit cards for a luxurious, high-class appearance.


    Summary
    The Metallic Ink & Toners feature in Visualis3R allows you to simulate luxurious metallic effects, such as gold, silver, or custom metallic colors. This feature empowers designers to visualize high-end finishes, maintain creative control, and reduce the need for costly proofs.

    For additional guidance, refer to the accompanying tutorial videos on metallic inks and related embellishments.
  • White ink & Toners
    This section of the Visualis3R user manual covers the White Ink & Toner feature, which allows you to simulate the use of white ink or toner on various substrates, such as black paper, gloss-coated paper, or clear film. White ink is a versatile tool for creating striking designs, especially when combined with embellishments like foil. This guide explains how to set up and visualize white ink effects to empower creative control and reduce the need for costly physical proofs.

    Overview
    The White Ink & Toner feature in Visualis3R enables designers to preview how white ink or toner appears on different substrates, such as black paper or clear film, and in combination with effects like foil stamping. By visualizing these effects on-screen, you can experiment with creative ideas without relying on expensive print proofs, keeping design control in the hands of the creator.

    Setting Up White Ink & Toner
    White ink is applied as a spot color layer and configured in Visualis3R to simulate its appearance on various substrates. Follow these steps to set up and visualize white ink effects.

    File Setup in Design Software
    1. Create a White Ink Layer:
      • In your design software (e.g., Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator), create a spot color layer named “White” for areas where white ink or toner will be applied.
      • Color the layer cyan in the design software to distinguish it, as white set to overprint or multiply appears transparent on-screen. (This follows industry standards from manufacturers like Ricoh.)
      • Example: For a design on black paper, create a white ink layer for text or graphics to ensure opacity.
    2. Save the File:
      • Export the design as a PDF to preserve layers and spot colors for import into Visualis3R.

    Configuring in Visualis3R
    1. Import the File:
      • Open Visualis3R and load the PDF file.
      • The software rips the file, recognizing the “White” spot color layer and any other separations (e.g., “Foil”).
    2. Configure the Substrate:
      • Select a substrate from the Substrate Controls:
        • Uncoated Paper: For example, black, is ideal for high-contrast white ink designs.
        • Gloss-Coated Paper: Simulates white ink on a shiny surface, less common but useful for specific effects.
        • Clear Film: Simulates white ink on transparent material, such as a window cling, with the background visible.
      • Use Environmental Controls to adjust lighting (e.g., switch to indoor lighting for clear film to enhance visibility).
      • Example: For a window cling, set the substrate to clear film and use indoor lighting to preview the white ink’s opacity.


    Design Considerations
    • Substrate Impact:
      • Black Paper: White ink creates high contrast, ideal for bold designs.
      • Clear Film: White ink ensures opacity for elements like window clings, with foil adding decorative effects.
      • Gloss-Coated Paper: White ink may appear less prominent but can be used for subtle effects.
    • Foil Integration: Combine white ink with foil stamping for luxurious effects, ensuring correct layer order (e.g., white ink below foil for stamping).
    • Cost Savings: Use Visualis3R to preview white ink avoiding expensive physical proofs.
    • Designer Control: Visualize creative ideas in Visualis3R to maintain control over the design process, rather than relying on printers to suggest embellishments like foil after submitting a CMYK file.
    • Applications: Use white ink for window clings, packaging, or labels on dark or transparent substrates, enhancing designs with foil or other effects.

    Summary
    The White Ink & Toner feature in Visualis3R empowers designers to simulate white ink or toner on substrates like black paper, gloss-coated paper, or clear film, often combined with foil stamping for striking effects. By setting up spot color layers, configuring substrates, and adjusting layer order, you can create accurate previews without costly proofs. Save presets for efficiency and use environmental controls to fine-tune lighting, ensuring your creative vision is realized before printing. This feature keeps design control with creatives, enabling innovative applications like window clings or luxury packaging.

    For additional guidance, refer to the accompanying tutorial videos on white ink and related embellishments.
  • Neon & Fluorescent Inks
    This section of the Visualis3R user manual covers the Neon & Fluorescent Inks feature, which simulates vibrant, attention-grabbing neon inks used in digital printing. These inks, often UV-reactive, can be used alone or combined with CMYK to expand the color gamut, creating striking effects for applications like advertisements or packaging.

    Overview
    The Neon & Fluorescent Inks feature in Visualis3R allows you to simulate bright neon inks, such as those used in the Touch7 Neon Color System, on various substrates. These inks are ideal for creating eye-catching designs and expanding the color gamut by combining neon colors (e.g., neon yellow, neon pink) with CMYK. Visualis3R enables you to preview these effects accurately, reducing the need for costly physical proofs.

    Setting Up Neon & Fluorescent Inks
    Neon inks are applied as spot color layers and configured in Visualis3R to match specific printing devices, such as the swissQprint. Follow these steps to set up and visualize neon ink effects.

    File Setup in Design Software
    1. Create Neon Ink Layers:
      • In your design software (e.g., Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop), create spot color layers for neon inks, such as “Neon Yellow” and “Neon Pink.”
    2. Save the File:
      • Export the design as a PDF to preserve layers and spot colors for import into Visualis3R.

    Configuring in Visualis3R
    1. Import the File:
      • Open Visualis3R and load the PDF file.
      • The software rips the file, recognizing spot color layers (e.g., “Neon Yellow,” “Neon Pink”) and marks those layers as unconfigured with a warning triangle, prompting you to select your specific inks.
    2. Configure Neon Ink Layers:
      • Select the neon ink layers (e.g., “Neon Yellow,” “Neon Pink”).
      • Assign the appropriate color values for the printing device:
        • Example: swissQprint — set “Neon Yellow” and “Neon Pink” to the swissQprint neon inks.
    3. Combine with CMYK for Expanded Gamut:
      • Enable CMYK layers to combine with neon inks, creating vibrant, expanded color effects:
        • Neon Pink: Combine with CMYK to create bright oranges or violets.
        • Neon Yellow: Combine with cyan to create new unique green colors.
      • Toggle layers on and off to preview individual neon contributions or combined effects.

    Design Considerations
    • Neon Ink Properties:
      • Neon inks are bright and attention-grabbing, often UV-reactive for enhanced visibility.
    • Color Gamut Expansion:
      • Combine neon inks (e.g., pink, yellow) with CMYK to create vibrant colors like oranges, greens, or violets.
      • Example: Neon pink with magenta creates a bright orange; neon yellow with cyan creates a green.
    • Substrate Impact: Test neon inks on different substrates (e.g., white paper, foil) to see how they interact with the base material.
    • Cost Savings: Visualize neon effects in Visualis3R to avoid expensive physical proofs, especially for large-format printing on devices like swissQprint.
    • Applications: Use neon inks for advertisements, packaging, or signage where vibrant, eye-catching colors are needed.


    Summary
    The Neon & Fluorescent Inks feature in Visualis3R enables you to simulate vibrant neon inks and toners, such as those in the Touch7 system, for applications like advertisements or packaging. By configuring neon yellow, neon pink, and CMYK layers, you can expand the color gamut to create striking effects like oranges and greens. Combine with foil for realistic visualizations, save presets for efficiency, and use environmental controls to fine-tune lighting. This feature empowers designers to preview neon effects accurately, maintaining creative control and reducing proofing costs.

    For additional guidance, refer to the accompanying tutorial videos on neon inks and related embellishments.
  • Glitter (Spot color or Base material)
    This section of the Visualis3R user manual covers the Glitter feature, which simulates the application of glitter as a print embellishment or base material. Glitter is popular in garment printing, greeting cards, and packaging, adding a sparkly, reflective effect. Below, you’ll find instructions on how to set up and apply glitter effects, adjust their properties, and layer them correctly for realistic previews.

    Overview
    The Glitter feature in Visualis3R allows you to simulate glitter as a post-finishing technique (e.g., on logos, text, or designs) or as a base material (e.g., glittery paper). You can customize glitter color, intensity, and scale, and combine it with other layers like foil, white ink, or CMYK colors to achieve the desired effect. This feature helps you visualize how glitter will appear in real-world applications, ensuring accurate designs before printing.

    Setting Up Glitter
    To apply glitter effects in Visualis3R, you need to correctly set up your design file and configure layers. Below are the steps for two common use cases: glitter as a post-finishing technique (e.g., on a T-shirt) and glitter as a base material (e.g., for packaging).

    1. Glitter as a Post-Finishing Technique
    This approach is ideal for garment printing (e.g., a logo on a T-shirt) or greeting cards (e.g., balloons on a birthday card).
    File Setup in Adobe Illustrator/InDesign etc
    • Create a Spot color in your artwork called “Glitter”


    Configuring in Visualis3R
    1. Import the File:
      • Load the Illustrator file into Visualis3R.
      • The software will recognize layers, including the "Glitter" spot color, which will display a warning triangle indicating it needs configuration.
    2. Set Layer Order:
      • Arrange layers to achieve the correct stacking—Use the interface to reorder layers as needed (e.g., move glitter above CMYK).
    3. Configure Glitter:
      • Select the "Glitter" layer and choose a color (e.g., pink).
      • Adjust the following properties:
        • Set a dark color: Set a darker shade to create contrast, as glitter relies on light reflection for its effect.
        • Scale: Reduce or increase the size of glitter particles for a finer or coarser effect.
        • Intensity: Increase to brighten the glitter or decrease for a subtler sparkle.
      • Example: For pink glitter, select a darker pink for contrast, reduce the scale for a finer texture, and boost intensity for a vibrant effect.
    4. Preview and Adjust:
      • Zoom in to check the glitter texture, ensuring it mimics the real-world effect (e.g., slightly uneven for metallic or glitter finishes).
    5. Save Presets:
      • Save the glitter settings (e.g., "Pink Glitter”).
      • This avoids reconfiguring settings when reloading or modifying the file.

    2. Glitter as a Base Material
    This approach is used for substrates like glittery paper (e.g., for packaging or greeting cards).

    Configuring in Visualis3R
    1. Select Glitter Substrate:
      • Go to the Substrate Controls and choose Glitter as the base material.
      • This simulates a silvery, glittery sheet of paper as the foundation for your design.
    2. Customize Glitter Properties:
      • Color: Set the glitter color (e.g., pink, silver, or gold).
      • Intensity: Adjust to control the brightness of the glitter effect.
      • Scale: Modify the size of glitter particles for a fine or bold appearance.
      • Example: For a pink glittery package, select a pink hue, increase intensity for vibrancy, and adjust scale for the desired texture.
    3. Add Design Layers:
      • Apply white ink or CMYK colors over the glitter substrate to create colored glitter effects.
      • Example: Printing cyan over a glitter substrate creates a cyan-colored glitter effect.
    4. Preview and Adjust:
      • Use the Environmental Controls to test the glitter substrate under different lighting conditions (e.g., indoor vs. outdoor).
      • Adjust the glitter properties to match physical samples from your print service provider.
    5. Save Presets:
      • Save the glitter substrate settings as a preset (e.g., "Pink Glitter Base") for consistent use in future projects.

    General Tips for Glitter
    • Layer Order: Ensure glitter layers are above the substrate and CMYK layers for visibility.
    • Realistic Previews: Use Visualis3R to simulate glitter accurately, avoiding costly print proofs. Compare with physical samples for accuracy.
    • Environmental Controls: Adjust lighting to see how glitter reflects in different settings (e.g., indoor for better contrast, outdoor for brighter effects).
    • File Management: Save presets for glitter settings and layer orders to streamline workflows, especially for repetitive designs.

    Example Applications
    • Garment Printing: Apply pink glitter to a logo on a T-shirt.
    • Greeting Cards: Simulate hand-finished glitter on elements like balloons, adjusting scale and intensity for a realistic sparkle.
    • Packaging: Use a glitter base material for a sparkly package, printing CMYK colors over it for colored glitter effects.


    Summary
    The Glitter feature in Visualis3R enables you to simulate glitter as a post-finishing technique or base material. Whether adding sparkle to a T-shirt logo, greeting card, or glittery packaging, you can customize color, scale, and intensity, and combine with other layers like foil, white ink, or CMYK. Proper layer ordering and presets ensure efficiency, while environmental controls help you preview designs in realistic settings. Experiment with different substrates and lighting to perfect your glitter effects before printing.

    For more details, refer to the accompanying tutorial videos on glitter applications.
  • Lamination
    This section of the Visualis3R user manual covers the Lamination feature, which simulates post-finishing lamination effects such as gloss, matte, and textured finishes. Lamination can enhance or alter the appearance of other embellishments like foil and embossing, and this guide explains how to configure and combine these effects for realistic previews.

    Overview
    The Lamination feature in Visualis3R allows you to apply gloss or matte laminates, with optional texture, to your design. Lamination affects the reflectivity and appearance of the substrate and other embellishments, such as foil or embossing. By adjusting laminate properties and layer order, you can simulate real-world print effects, ensuring your design matches the final product.

    Setting Up Lamination
    Lamination is applied as a post-finishing effect over a substrate and can interact with other embellishments. Below are the steps to configure lamination in Visualis3R.

    File Setup
    • Create a spot color for the lamination: In your design software (e.g., Adobe Illustrator), create a layer called “Laminate”.

    Configuring in Visualis3R
    1. Import the File:
      • Load the design file into Visualis3R.
    2. Configure Lamination:
      • Adjust the following properties:
        • Gloss Level: Increase for a glossy finish (e.g., 100% for high gloss) or decrease for a matte finish (e.g., 0% for fully matte).
        • Texture Intensity: Increase for a pronounced textured effect (e.g., dimpled surface) or decrease for a smoother finish.
    3. Adjust Layer Order:
      • Lamination Over Foil:
        • Place the lamination layer above the foil to simulate a laminate covering the foil.
        • A matte laminate (e.g., 0% gloss) dulls the foil’s reflectivity, creating a flat, subdued effect.
        • A gloss laminate enhances the foil’s shine, allowing light to reflect through both layers.
      • Foil Over Lamination:
        • Move the foil layer above the lamination to simulate hot foil stamping applied after lamination.
        • This preserves the foil’s full reflectivity and adds a slight 3D embossed edge, mimicking real-world foil stamping.
    4. Preview and Adjust:
      • Use the Environmental Controls to adjust lighting and background to see how lamination affects the design:
        • Example: On a deep black substrate, adjust lighting to capture subtle embossing and foil effects, as black backgrounds are challenging to simulate.
      • Test gloss, matte, and texture settings to match physical samples.
      • Move the design (e.g., pan or tilt) to observe how light interacts with the laminate and foil.
    5. Save Presets:
      • Save lamination settings (e.g., “Matte Textured Laminate”).

    Design Considerations
    • Lamination Impact on Foil:
      • A matte laminate over foil reduces reflectivity, creating a duller, flatter effect.
      • A gloss laminate enhances foil’s shine, amplifying light reflection.
      • Place foil above lamination for a vibrant, unaffected metallic effect.
    • Texture Realism: Adjust texture intensity to mimic real-world laminates (e.g., a dimpled effect for tactile packaging).
    • Real-World Matching: Compare Visualis3R previews with physical samples from your printer to ensure accuracy, especially for complex effects like lamination over foil.
    • Layer Order: Experiment with layer stacking to achieve the desired effect (e.g., foil over laminate vs. laminate over foil).


    Summary
    The Lamination feature in Visualis3R simulates gloss, matte, and textured laminates, allowing you to preview their impact on substrates and embellishments like foil and embossing. By adjusting gloss levels, texture intensity, and layer order, you can create realistic previews of complex designs, such as black packaging with bronze foil and embossed elements. Save and share presets for consistency, and use environmental controls to fine-tune lighting for accurate visualizations. This feature helps you perfect your designs before printing, ensuring the final product matches your vision.

    For additional guidance, refer to the accompanying tutorial videos on lamination and related embellishments.
  • Expanded Color Gamut Inks (ECG)
    This section of the Visualis3R user manual covers the Expanded Color Gamut Inks (ECG) feature, which simulates vibrant spot colors like orange, green, blue, red, and violet to achieve hues beyond the capabilities of standard CMYK. These inks, often used in digital printing, enhance brightness and vibrancy, particularly for brand colors. This guide explains how to set up and visualize ECG inks.

    Overview
    The Expanded Color Gamut Inks (ECG) feature in Visualis3R allows you to simulate bright, non-CMYK colors, such as Orange, and combine them with CMYK or other ECG inks to expand the color gamut. By configuring ink colors to match specific printing devices (e.g., Ideal Alliance, HP, Landa) or custom values, you can create accurate previews for designs like book covers or packaging, reducing the need for costly physical proofs.

    Setting Up Expanded Color Gamut Inks
    ECG inks are applied as spot color layers and configured in Visualis3R to match the desired printing process or brand color. Follow these steps to set up and visualize ECG inks for a book cover design.

    File Setup in Design Software
    1. Create ECG Spot Color Layers:
      • In your design software (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, or InDesign), create spot color layers for ECG inks, such as “Orange,” “Green,” or “Violet.”
      • Optionally combine ECG inks with CMYK to enhance colors (e.g., orange with red for a more vibrant red).
    2. Save the File:
      • Export the design as a PDF to preserve layers and spot colors for import into Visualis3R.

    Configuring in Visualis3R
    1. Import the File:
      • Open Visualis3R and load the PDF file.
      • The software rips the file, recognizing spot color layers (e.g., “Orange”) and marking unconfigured layers with a warning triangle.
    2. Configure ECG Ink Layers:
      • Select the ECG spot color layer (e.g., “Orange”).
      • Select a preset from the drop down menu based on the printing device or standard:
        • Idealliance: Use for industry-standard ECG ink values (e.g., Idealliance orange).
        • Other Devices: Select specific device colors (e.g., Landa, HP, swissQprint) if printing on those machines.
        • Custom Color: Input RGB or hex values for brand colors (e.g., Brand Orange = RGB 255, 82, 0).
      • Repeat for other ECG inks (e.g., green, violet) using device-specific colors or custom values.
    3. Combine with CMYK:
      • Enable CMYK layers to combine with ECG inks for an expanded color gamut:
        • Example: Combine orange ECG ink with red CMYK to create a vibrant red, or green ECG ink with cyan for a peppermint green.
      • Toggle layers on and off to preview individual ECG contributions or combined effects.
    4. Configure the Substrate:
      • Select a substrate from Substrate Controls to affect ECG ink appearance:
        • Gloss-Coated Paper: Enhances vibrancy but may add reflections.
        • Matte/Uncoated Paper: Reduces gloss and may dull colors slightly (set ink absorption to 100% for realism).
    5. Save Presets:
      • Save custom ECG ink as presets (e.g., “Book Cover Orange”) for reuse.
      • Export presets as JSON files to share with clients or printers for consistent settings.

    Design Considerations
    • ECG Ink Properties:
      • ECG inks (orange, green, blue, red, violet) achieve vibrant colors beyond CMYK (e.g., Pantone 021 orange is brighter than CMYK orange).
      • Combine ECG inks with CMYK to expand the gamut (e.g., orange + red for vibrant red, green + cyan for peppermint green).
    • Device-Specific inks:
      • Use ink sets like Ideaalliance for standard ECG inks or device-specific inks (e.g., Landa, HP ECG, swissQprint) for accurate color matching.
      • Example: HP’s vivid green differs from HP’s ECG green, so select the correct ink for your printer.
    • Color Accuracy:
      • Input RGB or hex values for Pantone or brand colors (e.g., Pantone 021 = RGB 255, 82, 0) to match specific standards.
      • Verify colors with a color meter on a neutral substrate (e.g., white paper, no gloss, no reflections) to avoid contamination from shading or ink absorption.
    • Substrate Impact: Matte or uncoated substrates may dull ECG inks, while gloss-coated substrates enhance vibrancy but add reflections.

    Summary
    The Expanded Color Gamut Inks (ECG) feature in Visualis3R enables you to simulate vibrant spot colors like orange, green, and violet, achieving hues beyond CMYK capabilities. Configure inks for specific devices (e.g., Idealliance, Landa) or custom colors, combine with CMYK for expanded gamut effects, and pair with foil for premium designs. Adjust substrates and lighting for accurate previews, save presets for efficiency, and maintain creative control while reducing proofing costs.

    For additional guidance, refer to the accompanying tutorial videos on ECG inks and related embellishments.
  • Brand Spot Colors
    This section of the Visualis3R user manual covers the Brand Spot Colors feature, which allows you to configure and match any flat color, including Pantone, brand-specific spot colors, metallics, and foils. Since Visualis3R does not include built-in color lookup tables, you can manually input RGB values to simulate specific colors, ensuring accurate visualizations for your designs.

    Overview
    The Brand Spot Colors feature in Visualis3R provides a flexible system to recognize and configure any spot color, including metallics, and foils, using a catch-all mechanism. By inputting RGB or hex values and adjusting properties like metalness, texture, and flake size, you can match real-world samples and save settings as presets for consistency.

    Setting Up Brand Spot Colors
    Spot colors are set up as layers in your design file and configured in Visualis3R to match specific colors or effects. Follow these steps to set up and visualize brand spot colors, metallics, and foils.

    File Setup in Design Software
    1. Create a Spot Color Layer:
      • In your design software (e.g., Adobe Illustrator), create a spot color and set it up with the appropriate color values (e.g., “Brand Spot Colour” which is an orange with RGB color values of 255, 82, 0).
    2. Determine Color Values of specific spot colors:
      • You can obtain the RGB or hex values for most spot colors from:
        • A reliable source like www.colorxs.com to find values.
        • In Illustrator, switch the spot color to RGB to view its values.
    3. Save the File:
      • Export the design as a PDF to preserve layers and spot colors for import into Visualis3R.

    Configuring in Visualis3R
    1. Import the File:
      • Open Visualis3R and load the PDF file.
      • The software rips the file, recognizing the spot color layer (e.g., “Brand Spot Colour”), which will display a warning triangle as it is unconfigured and needs you to specify what color it is.
    2. Configure the Spot Color:
      • Spot Color:
        • Select the “Brand Spot Colour” layer and open the Color Picker.
        • Input the RGB values (e.g., 255, 82, 0).
        • Save as a preset (e.g., “Brand Orange”) for reuse.
      • Metallic Spot Color:
        • Select the spot color layer and input RGB values (e.g., 135, 113, 90).
        • Enable the Metallic option to apply a metallic effect.
        • Adjust properties:
          • Metalness: Controls the grayness/reflectivity (higher for a matte look, lower for a shiny effect).
          • Texture: Adds a dimpled effect (increase for more texture, decrease for smoothness).
          • Flake Size: Adds metallic sparkle (increase for a pronounced effect, set to zero for a flat metallic look).
          • Intensity: Enhances the sparkle’s brightness.
      • Foil Spot Color:
        • Select the spot color layer and input RGB values.
        • Enable the Foil option for a foil effect.
        • Adjust properties:
          • Reflection: Increase for a mirror-like shine or decrease for a matte foil.
          • Texture: Keep low for a realistic foil (slight texture is recommended).
          • Metalness: Adjust for a shinier or grayer appearance.
    3. Layer Order:
      • Arrange layers to achieve the desired effect:
        • Place metallic or foil spot colors below other layers (e.g., black text over a metallic).
    4. Preview and Adjust:
      • Use Environmental Controls to adjust lighting and background to highlight the spot color, metallic, or foil effect.
        • Example: Move lighting to emphasize metallic sparkle or foil reflection.
      • Zoom in to check details, such as flake texture or foil sheen.
      • Adjust sliders (e.g., metalness, texture, intensity) to match physical samples from suppliers or printers.
    5. Save Presets:
      • Save spot color settings (e.g., “Brand Orange,” “My Metallic,” “Custom Foil”) as presets for reuse.
      • Export presets as JSON files to share with team members or printers for consistent settings across multiple computers.

    Design Considerations
    • Color Matching:
      • Use reliable sources (e.g., www.colorxs.com) or Illustrator’s RGB mode to obtain accurate RGB values for brand colors.
      • Avoid AI-based tools for color values, as they may be inaccurate.
    • Metallic and Foil Effects:
      • For metallics, adjust flake size and intensity for sparkle (e.g., offset-printed metallic inks may need smaller flake sizes).
      • For foils, use high reflection and low texture for a shiny, realistic effect.
    • Layer Order: Place metallic or foil spot colors below text or other layers to ensure visibility, and adjust based on the printing process.
    • Real-World Matching: Obtain physical samples from printers or suppliers to fine-tune settings (e.g., metalness, texture) for accuracy.
    • Applications: Use brand spot colors for packaging, business cards, or branding materials requiring precise color matches
    • Cost Savings: Visualize spot colors, metallics, and foils in Visualis3R to avoid expensive physical proofs.

    Summary
    The Brand Spot Colors feature in Visualis3R allows you to configure and match any spot color, including metallics, and foils, using a catch-all system. Input RGB values, adjust properties like metalness, texture, and flake size, and save presets for consistency. Combine with other layers (e.g., text) and test on various substrates for accurate previews. This feature empowers designers to maintain creative control, match real-world samples, and reduce proofing costs.

    For additional guidance, refer to the accompanying tutorial videos on brand spot colors and related embellishments.

    DISCLAIMER
    Spot color names imported into or displayed by the Software may include third-party trademarks, including but not limited to PANTONE®. Such trademarks are used solely for identification and reference purposes and remain the property of their respective owners. The inclusion of any third-party trademark within the Software does not imply any affiliation with, or endorsement by, the trademark owner.

    Visualis3R does not contain, access, or utilize any proprietary color libraries, color data, or other materials owned by third parties, including Pantone LLC. Users may assign custom names to spot colors at their discretion. All third-party trademarks, product names, or brand references appearing within the Software are used for descriptive purposes only and do not constitute sponsorship, affiliation, or endorsement of this Software or its developer.
  • Invisible Ink
    This section of the Visualis3R user manual covers the Invisible Ink feature, which simulates the use of UV-reactive inks that are invisible under normal lighting but illuminate under a UV blacklight. This feature is ideal for security applications, such as passports, event tickets, or credit cards. Below, you’ll find instructions on how to configure and visualize invisible ink effects.

    Overview
    The Invisible Ink feature in Visualis3R allows you to simulate UV-reactive inks that remain hidden until exposed to a UV blacklight. This is useful for adding security features to designs like passports or tickets.

    Setting Up Invisible Ink
    Invisible ink layers are set up in your design file and configured in Visualis3R to simulate their appearance under UV light. Follow these steps to use the feature effectively.

    File Setup
    • Create an Invisible Ink Layer: In your design software (e.g., Adobe Illustrator), create a spot color layer named “Invisible” for areas where UV-reactive ink will be applied.

    Configuring in Visualis3R
    1. Import the File:
      • Load the design file into Visualis3R.
    2. Configure Invisible Ink:
      • Switch on the UV Blacklight icon to illuminate the invisible ink areas.
      • Select the “Invisible” layer and adjust the following properties:
        • Color: Choose the UV ink color (e.g., red, blue, yellow).
        • Intensity: Modify the brightness of the glow (e.g., increase for a vibrant effect, decrease for a subtler appearance).
      • Example: For a passport, set the invisible ink to red and adjust intensity to match the glow of a physical sample under UV light.
    3. Save Presets:
      • Save the invisible ink settings (e.g., “Blue UV Ink”) as a preset for reuse.
      • Example: If using a specific blue UV ink for a client’s tickets, save the color and intensity settings to ensure consistency

    Design Considerations
    • UV Ink Visibility: Invisible ink is only visible under UV blacklight. Ensure the design accounts for this (e.g., place ink in areas that need security features, like ticket barcodes or passport patterns).
    • Background Interaction: Test UV ink colors (e.g., blue, yellow, red) against different substrates (e.g., white paper, colored backgrounds) to optimize glow visibility.
    • Layer Order: Use masking to prevent invisible ink from overlapping with foil, varnish, or other elements where it’s not needed.
    • Real-World Matching: Compare Visualis3R previews with physical samples from your printer to ensure the UV ink’s color and intensity are accurate.
    • Security Applications: Use invisible ink for anti-counterfeiting features on passports, tickets, or credit cards, ensuring the glow is distinct and functional.

    Summary
    The Invisible Ink feature in Visualis3R simulates UV-reactive inks for security applications like passports and tickets. By configuring invisible ink layers, adjusting color and intensity, and combining with foil, embossing, and varnish, you can create realistic previews of complex designs.

    For additional guidance, refer to the accompanying tutorial videos on invisible ink and related embellishments.
  • Embossing
    This section of the Visualis3R user manual covers the Embossing feature, which simulates the tactile and visual effects of embossed print embellishments. Embossing creates raised or recessed designs on a substrate, adding depth and texture that you can feel and see through lighting and shading effects. Below, you'll find detailed instructions on how to use the Embossing feature to achieve realistic previews of your designs.

    Overview
    The Embossing feature in Visualis3R allows you to simulate the look and feel of embossed designs by adjusting properties like height, bevel, shadows, and highlights. You can apply these effects to various substrates and lighting conditions to match the intended printing process, ensuring your design looks accurate before production.

    Setting Up Embossing
    When you import a file with an embossing layer, Visualis3R enables you to manipulate the embossing effects to match different printing processes and substrates. Follow these steps to configure embossing:
    1. Load the Embossing Layer:
      • Ensure your design file includes a designated embossing layer.
      • The default settings will apply a basic embossed effect with predefined height, bevel, shadow, and highlight values.
    2. Adjust Embossing Properties:
      • Height: Controls the depth of the embossing. Lower the height for a subtler effect or increase it for a more pronounced look.
      • Bevel: Adjusts the edge angle of the embossed area, affecting how light interacts with the raised surface.
      • Shadow: Modifies the intensity of the shadow cast by the embossed area. Increase for darker shadows, especially on darker substrates.
      • Highlight: Adjusts the brightness of the raised edges where light reflects. Fine-tune to enhance visibility on different substrates.
      • Use the sliders to find the "sweet spot" that matches your desired embossing effect.
    3. Preview and Fine-Tune:
      • Experiment with the sliders to see real-time changes in the embossed effect.
      • Use the Reset to Default option to revert to the initial settings if needed.

    Working with Substrates
    Embossing appearance varies depending on the substrate. Visualis3R allows you to test embossing on different materials to simulate real-world results:
    • Colored Substrates: Switch to substrates like colored or black paper to see how embossing interacts with the material.
      • Example: On black paper, increase shadow intensity to make the embossing stand out, as black paper typically has lower contrast (not 100% jet black, especially if uncoated).
      • Adjust highlights to reduce excessive reflectivity on darker substrates for a realistic effect.
    • Uncoated Materials: Select uncoated substrates to simulate a less reflective surface, which may dull highlights but enhance texture visibility.

    Environmental and Lighting Controls
    Lighting significantly affects how embossing appears. Use the Environmental Controls to simulate different lighting conditions:
    • Adjust Lighting:
      • Access the Environmental Controls at the top of the interface.
      • Move the lighting source to change how shadows and highlights appear on the embossed surface.
      • Example: Indoor lighting provides better contrast, while outdoor lighting may create a brighter, less defined effect.

    Navigation and Manipulation
    To visualize the embossing from different angles:
    • Pan and Tilt:
      • Hold the Option key to control yaw movement (Y-axis rotation).
      • Hold the Space bar to pan and move the design around.
      • Adjust the view to find the ideal angle for capturing snapshots (e.g., for use on a website).
    • Rotation: By default, the design is fixed as if on a pin. Use the yaw and pan controls to adjust the perspective dynamically.

    Saving Presets
    To streamline your workflow, save custom embossing settings for reuse:
    1. Configure the embossing properties (height, bevel, shadow, highlight).
    2. Save the settings as a preset (e.g., "Black Embossed") via the settings menu.
    3. To apply the preset:
      • Load a new file.
      • Apply the saved embossing preset (e.g., Black Embossed) from the color separations or settings menu.


    Design Considerations
    • Substrate Impact: Test embossing on the exact substrate you plan to print on (e.g., black paper, colored paper, uncoated materials) to ensure accurate previews.
    • Lighting and Shadows: Adjust shadow and highlight strengths to match the printing process and substrate. Darker substrates may require stronger shadows for visibility.
    • Real-World Samples: Compare your Visualis3R preview with physical samples from your print service provider to confirm accuracy.
    • Cost Savings: Use Visualis3R to perfect your embossing design before sending it to the printer, reducing the need for costly proofs.

    Summary
    The Embossing feature in Visualis3R allows you to simulate tactile and visual embossing effects with precision. By adjusting height, bevel, shadows, and highlights, and testing on various substrates and lighting conditions, you can create realistic previews of your embossed designs. Save presets for efficiency, experiment with environmental controls, and use snapshots to share your work. This feature helps you visualize embossing accurately, ensuring your final printed product matches your vision.

    For additional guidance, refer to the accompanying tutorial videos on embossing.
  • Color-Logic
    This section of the Visualis3R user manual covers the Color-Logic feature, which simulates the Color-Logic system for printing on metallic substrates or with metallic inks. Unlike the proprietary Color-Logic FX Viewer, Visualis3R supports Color-Logic alongside other embellishments (e.g., varnish, neon inks, foil) for comprehensive design visualization.

    Overview
    The Color-Logic feature in Visualis3R enables you to simulate printing on metallic substrates (e.g., silver foil, rainbow holographic) or with metallic inks (e.g., silver, white) for effects like cold foil or sleeking. Color-Logic files are designed to work seamlessly with white or silver ink without requiring file modifications, and Visualis3R enhances this by allowing additional embellishments like varnish or neon inks. This feature provides a versatile platform for designers to preview complex print effects accurately.

    Setting Up Color-Logic
    Color-Logic effects are applied through spot color layers and configured in Visualis3R to match specific substrates and printing processes. Follow these steps to set up and visualize Color-Logic effects.

    File Setup in Design Software
    1. Create Color-Logic Layers:
      • In your design software (e.g., Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop), create spot color layers for Color-Logic effects, typically a “CL 4713 SILVER” spot color for metallic effects (e.g., silver or white ink).
    2. Save the File:
      • Export the design as a PDF to preserve layers and spot colors for import into Visualis3R.

    Configuring in Visualis3R
    1. Import the File:
      • Open Visualis3R and load the PDF file.
      • The software rips the file, recognizing spot color layers (e.g., “CL 4713 SILVER” . Unconfigured layers display a warning triangle.
    2. Configure Color-Logic Layer:
      • Select the “Color-Logic” layer and choose the effect:
        • Silver Ink: For printing silver ink on a non-metallic substrate (e.g., gloss-coated paper).
        • White Ink: For printing on a metallic substrate (e.g., silver foil).
        • Custom Metallic Ink: For custom metallic effects.
        • Foil: For cold foil or sleeking applications (e.g., foil adhered to black toner via lamination).
    3. Configure the Substrate:
      • Go to Substrate Controls and select a metallic substrate (e.g., silver foil, rainbow holographic).
      • Adjust properties:
        • Texture: Increase for a dimpled effect, decrease for a smooth, mirror-like finish.
        • Metalness: Controls grayness (higher for more contrast).
        • Reflection: Adjusts shininess of the foil.
    4. Preview and Adjust:
      • Use Environmental Controls to adjust lighting and background to highlight Color-Logic and other effects:
        • Example: Move lighting to emphasize the metallic sheen of the silver foil.
      • Toggle layers to isolate Color-Logic effects (e.g., white ink on foil vs. silver ink on paper).
      • Zoom in to check details, such as the dimpled texture of the foil or the tactile effect of Duplo varnish.

    1. Save Presets:
      • Save edited Color-Logic settings as presets (e.g., “Sharp BP-1200S Color-Logic”) for reuse.
      • Export presets as JSON files to share with clients or printers for consistent settings.

    Design Considerations
    • Color-Logic Flexibility:
      • Color-Logic files support silver or white ink without modification, automatically adjusting via the ripping process.
      • Example: Print white ink on a silver foil substrate or silver ink on gloss-coated paper for different effects.
    • Substrate Impact:
      • Use metallic substrates with white ink for vibrant Color-Logic effects.
      • Adjust texture and metalness to match physical samples for realism.
    • Embellishment Integration:
      • Combine Color-Logic with neon inks (e.g., Touch7 neon pink) for vibrant accents or Duplo varnish for tactile effects.
    • Layer Order: Place white ink or neon layers above the substrate but below varnish or foil for correct visibility.
    • Real-World Matching: Obtain samples from print partners (e.g., Sharp, UniFoil) to fine-tune settings like texture, reflection, or opacity.
    • Applications: Use Color-Logic for packaging, labels, or promotional materials requiring metallic effects with vibrant colors.
    • Cost Savings: Visualize Color-Logic effects in Visualis3R to avoid expensive physical proofs for complex prints.

    Summary
    The Color-Logic feature in Visualis3R simulates the Color-Logic system for printing on metallic substrates or with silver/white inks, supporting effects like cold foil and sleeking. Configure layers for white or silver ink, combine with neon inks (e.g., Touch7) and Duplo varnish, and adjust substrates for realistic previews. Save presets for efficiency, fine-tune with environmental controls, and maintain creative control while reducing proofing costs. Visualis3R’s flexibility enhances Color-Logic beyond its proprietary FX Viewer, supporting additional embellishments for comprehensive design visualization.

    For additional guidance, refer to the accompanying tutorial videos on Color-Logic, neon inks, and related embellishments.
  • Base Materials (Substrates)
    This section of the Visualis3R user manual covers the Base Materials feature, which allows you to customize the substrate of your design to achieve various visual effects. Below, you'll find detailed instructions on how to work with different base materials, adjust their properties, and understand how they impact your design's appearance.

    Overview
    The Base Materials feature in Visualis3R enables you to select and fine-tune different substrates to simulate how your design will look when printed. Each material affects how colors, reflectivity, and transparency appear, helping you visualize the final output accurately. You can switch between substrates, adjust their properties, save presets, and reset to defaults as needed.

    Available Base Materials
    Visualis3R supports a variety of base materials, each with unique properties that influence the appearance of your design. Below is a breakdown of the available materials and how to work with them.

    1. Gloss Coated
    • Description: A shiny, reflective surface that enhances color saturation.
    • How to Use:
      • Select Gloss Coated from the substrate controls.
      • Adjust the gloss level to increase or decrease the reflective effect. Higher values create a shinier appearance.
      • Colors appear more vibrant compared to uncoated paper.
    • Default: The software resets to Gloss Coated when using the Reset to Default option.

    2. Uncoated Paper
    • Description: A non-reflective surface where ink is slightly absorbed, resulting in less saturated colors.
    • How to Use:
      • Select Uncoated Paper from the substrate controls.
      • Fine-tune the ink absorption level to adjust how much the colors dull. Higher absorption results in a less vibrant appearance, similar to the Pantone uncoated guide.
      • Save custom absorption settings as presets for future use.
    • Note: Compare with Gloss Coated to see the difference in color saturation.

    3. Foil
    • Description: A metallic substrate that reflects light through CMYK inks, creating a metallic colors and effects.
    • How to Use:
      • Select Foil from the substrate controls.
      • Apply CMYK inks to see metallic effects (e.g., cyan becomes metallic cyan).
      • Note that darker, more saturated colors (e.g., black, violet-blue) reduce reflectivity, as they block light from bouncing off the foil.
    • Design Tip: Test lighter colors to maximize the metallic effect. Previewing in Visualis3R helps avoid costly print proofs.

    4. Clear Material
    • Description: Used for transparent substrates like clear labels.
    • How to Use:
      • Select Clear Material from the substrate controls.
      • Adjust reflectivity and translucency to simulate materials like acetate or semi-transparent parchment.
      • Use the Environmental Controls to change the background:
        • Default: Gray background (neutral to avoid color contamination).
        • Options: Switch to indoor, outdoor, white, black, or other environments to see how the background impacts the design.
      • Example: A white background makes the design appear brighter, while a gray background may dull the effect.
    • Design Tip: Experiment with different environments to visualize how the clear material looks in real-world settings.

    5. Glitter
    • Description: A sparkling substrate with customizable color and intensity.
    • How to Use:
      • Select Glitter from the substrate controls.
      • Adjust the glitter color (e.g., gold, silver) and intensity to control brightness.
      • Modify the glitter scale to fine-tune the size and prominence of the sparkle effect.
    • Note: Save custom glitter settings as presets for consistent designs.

    6. Brushed Metal
    • Description: Simulates a metallic surface with a brushed texture.
    • How to Use:
      • Select Brushed Metal from the substrate controls.
      • The software uses a mathematical calculation to mimic the brushed effect.
      • Adjust reflectivity to enhance or reduce the metallic appearance.

    7. Plastic
    • Description: Simulates printing on colored plastic surfaces with customizable gloss levels.
    • How to Use:
      • Select Plastic from the substrate controls.
      • Choose a plastic color (e.g., red) and adjust the gloss level to make it more reflective (glossy) or less reflective (matte).
      • Use Environmental Controls to switch between indoor and outdoor lighting for realistic previews.
        • Indoor lighting provides better contrast for realistic effects.
        • Outdoor lighting may appear brighter due to intense ambient light.

    8. Rainbow Holographic
    • Description: A reflective, color-shifting substrate that mimics holographic materials.
    • How to Use:
      • Select Rainbow Holographic from the substrate controls.
      • Adjust the following properties:
        • Vibrancy: Controls the intensity of the color-shifting effect.
        • Patchiness: Adjusts the silver/gray effect, simulating the reflective quality of holographic foil.
        • Craziness: Modifies the amplitude of the holographic pattern (higher values create bolder patterns).
        • Frequency: Controls how quickly colors shift (lower values create slower, smoother transitions).
      • Example: Reduce patchiness to minimize the silver effect and emphasize color shifts.


    Saving Presets and Resetting
    • Saving Presets: Save custom material settings (e.g., gloss level, ink absorption, glitter scale) as presets for quick access in future projects.
    • Reset to Default: Resets the substrate to Gloss Coated and clears all custom settings.
      • Warning: Switching between materials without saving presets will reset adjustments to defaults, so always save important settings.


    Design Considerations
    • Color Interaction:
      • Colors appear differently depending on the substrate (e.g., more saturated on gloss coated, duller on uncoated).
      • On foil and holographic materials, lighter colors enhance reflectivity, while darker colors reduce it.
    • Realistic Previews: Use Visualis3R to test designs before printing to avoid costly proofing errors.
    • Environmental Impact: Always consider the lighting and background environment when designing for transparent or reflective materials.


    Summary
    The Base Materials feature in Visualis3R allows you to simulate a wide range of substrates, from gloss coated paper to rainbow holographic foil. By adjusting properties like reflectivity, translucency, and vibrancy, and using environmental controls, you can create realistic previews of your designs. Save custom presets to streamline your workflow, and always test your designs in different environments to ensure accuracy before printing.

    For more details on specific settings, refer to the accompanying tutorial videos, especially the foil tutorial for advanced rainbow holographic effects.
  • Masking (Die Cutting)
    This section of the Visualis3R user manual covers the Masking (Die Cutting) feature, which allows you to simulate die-cut shapes in your designs, such as packaging or labels. The masking process uses a filled shape to define the visible area. Below, you’ll find instructions on setting up and configuring masking.

    Overview
    The Masking (Die Cutting) feature in Visualis3R enables you to define a specific area of your design to simulate a die-cut shape, such as a packaging outline. Unlike a traditional die line (a single outline), Visualis3R uses a solid filled area as a mask to block out unwanted parts of the design.

    Setting Up Masking
    Masking is configured in your design file and visualized in Visualis3R to simulate a die-cut shape. Follow these steps to set up and apply masking effectively.

    File Setup in Design Software
    1. Create a Mask Layer:
      • In your design software (e.g., Adobe Illustrator), create a spot color layer named “Mask.”
      • Fill the desired shape (e.g., the outline of a packaging piece) with the solid “Mask” color.
      • Unlike a die line (a single outline), the mask must be a filled area.
      • Set the mask layer to Overprint or Multiply to ensure it interacts correctly with the underlying artwork.
    2. Save the File:
      • Export the design as a PDF to preserve layers and spot colors for import into Visualis3R.

    Configuring in Visualis3R
    1. Import the File:
      • Open Visualis3R and load the PDF file.
      • The software rips the PDF into grayscale TIFFs for each separation..
      • Note: For designs with small text or fine lines, increase the resolution in Visualis3R to improve clarity. Higher resolutions may increase ripping time, especially for multi-page PDFs.
    2. Configure the Mask Layer:
      • Locate the “Mask” layer in the layer list.
      • Enable the mask to block out areas outside the filled shape, revealing only the design within the die-cut area.

    Design Considerations
    • Mask vs. Die Line: Use a solid filled mask layer (not a single-line die line) to define the die-cut shape for accurate visualization.


    Summary
    The Masking (Die Cutting) feature in Visualis3R allows you to simulate die-cut shapes using a solid filled mask layer, defining the visible area of designs like packaging or labels. Combined with embellishments like Duplo varnish, foil, and white ink, you can create realistic previews of complex print effects. Configure layers, adjust varnish depth, and save presets for efficiency, especially for multi-page PDFs. Use environmental controls to fine-tune lighting and ensure accurate visualizations before printing.

    For additional guidance, refer to the accompanying tutorial videos on masking and related embellishments.
  • Image & Video Capture
    This section of the Visualis3R user manual covers the Image & Video Capture feature, which allows you to capture high-quality images and videos of your designs for sharing with customers, creating mockups, or using on websites. The feature supports transparent PNG images and WebM videos, with options to include logos, taglines, and other metadata.

    Overview
    The Image & Video Capture feature in Visualis3R enables you to save your designs as static images or dynamic videos. Images are saved as transparent PNG files, ideal for mockups or presentations, while videos are saved in WebM format, viewable in any browser without third-party software. You can customize the output with logos, taglines, and lighting adjustments to create professional visuals.

    Image Capture
    The image capture feature saves your design as a transparent PNG file, excluding the background environment, making it versatile for mockups and presentations.

    Steps to Capture an Image
    1. Set Up the Design:
      • Adjust the design’s appearance using the Environmental Controls to set lighting and background.
        • Tip: Use a grayscale background (default) for a neutral preview that doesn’t contaminate the design’s colors.
        • Adjust lighting intensity and position to highlight specific elements (e.g., embossing or glitter effects).
      • Example: For a packaging proof, position the lighting to emphasize textures or reflections.
    2. Configure Metadata:
      • Go to the Settings menu in the top right corner.
      • Logo: Upload your logo and toggle it on or off. Disable it if you don’t want it in the captured image.
      • Tagline: Add a custom tagline (e.g., “Honey Packaging Proof 1.4” or copyright information).
      • Date: Enable the date capture option to include the current date in the output.
    3. Capture the Image:
      • Locate the Image Capture icon (camera) at the bottom of the interface.
      • Click the icon to capture the design as a transparent PNG file.
      • Save the file to your desired location (e.g., desktop).
    4. Verify Transparency:
      • Open the PNG file in software like Photoshop to confirm it has a transparent background.
      • Use the transparent PNG for mockups by placing it over other images.
      • Example: Paste the PNG onto a background layer in Photoshop to create a mockup of a product like a business card or packaging.

    Use Cases
    • Client Approvals: Share transparent PNGs with customers to showcase proofs with embedded metadata (e.g., proof version, copyright).
    • Website Assets: Use high-resolution PNGs for website visuals, such as product mockups or portfolio images.
    • Mockups: Combine with other images in design software to create realistic 3D mockups (e.g., a logo on a box).

    Design Tips
    • Adjust lighting to highlight key design elements before capturing.
    • Scale or edit the PNG in Photoshop for advanced mockups, such as cutting panels for 3D box visuals.

    Video Capture
    The video capture feature records your design as a WebM video, allowing you to showcase dynamic movements and lighting effects.

    Steps to Capture a Video
    1. Set Up the Design:
      • As with image capture, adjust the lighting and background using Environmental Controls to achieve the desired effect.
      • Example: Move the lighting to show how glitter or embossing reflects differently from various angles.
    2. Configure Metadata:
      • Ensure the logo, tagline, and date settings are configured in the Settings menu (same as for image capture).
      • These elements will appear in the video if enabled.
    3. Record the Video:
      • Locate the Video Capture icon (video camera) at the bottom of the interface.
      • Click the icon to start recording.
      • Move, pan, or tilt the design using navigation controls to showcase different angles.
      • Click the icon again to stop recording.
      • Save the WebM file to your desired location (e.g., desktop).
    4. Review the Video:
      • Drag the WebM file into any web browser to view it (no third-party software required).
      • Note: Longer recordings result in larger file sizes, so keep videos concise to manage file size.

    Use Cases
    • Dynamic Presentations: Share WebM videos with clients to demonstrate how a design looks under different lighting or angles.
    • Marketing: Use videos on websites or social media to showcase interactive design elements like glitter or foil.
    • Proofing: Provide clients with a dynamic view of the design for approval.

    General Tips
    • Keep video recordings short to avoid large file sizes.
    • Use dynamic movements (e.g., panning, tilting) to highlight reflective or textured elements like glitter or embossing.
    • Ensure metadata (logo, tagline, date) is relevant and professional for client-facing videos.

    Summary
    The Image & Video Capture feature in Visualis3R allows you to create professional visuals of your designs. Capture transparent PNGs for static mockups or WebM videos for dynamic presentations, with options to include logos, taglines, and dates. Adjust lighting and backgrounds to perfect the look, and use the outputs for client approvals, website assets, or marketing. This feature streamlines the process of sharing and showcasing your designs with accuracy and flexibility.

    For additional guidance, refer to the accompanying tutorial videos on image and video capture.

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