Wide Web Holographic Film: Types, Uses and How to Choose

By Rajneesh Sharma, Owner, Kiran Holographics

Holographic film makes packaging stand out on a crowded shelf. The rainbow shine catches the eye, adds a premium feel, and can also make a pack harder to copy. That is why brands, printers and packaging companies use it for cartons, labels, pouches, gift wrap and lamination.

But "holographic film" is not one product. There are several types, and each one suits a different job. This guide explains the main types in simple terms, so you can choose the right one for your product.

What is wide web holographic film?

Wide web film is holographic film made on large-width machines, in big rolls. It is meant for high-volume work like packaging, lamination and printing, rather than small labels. The hologram pattern is embossed into the film from a nickel shim, then the film is coated or metallized to bring out the shine.

Type 1: Metallized holographic film

This is the most common type. After embossing, the film gets a thin metal layer, which gives a bright, mirror-like rainbow effect.

Best for: lamination of cartons and boxes, gift wrap, decorative packaging, and labels where maximum shine matters.

Type 2: Transparent holographic film

Transparent film carries the hologram effect but lets the surface underneath show through. The print or photo below stays visible, with a holographic layer on top.

Best for: lamination over printed designs, cards and documents, and packs where the brand artwork must stay clear.

Type 3: Cast and cure film

In cast and cure, the hologram is transferred from the film onto paper or board using a special coating that hardens. The film can then be removed, leaving the holographic effect on the paper surface.

Best for: premium cartons and packaging where brands want a holographic finish directly on the board.

Type 4: Holographic metallized paper

This is paper with a holographic metallized surface. It gives the shine of holographic film on a paper base.

Best for: cartons, labels and gift wrap, and for brands that prefer a paper-based option over plastic film.

Quick comparison

What to tell your supplier when you order

To get the right film quickly, share these details:

  1. Film type: metallized, transparent, cast and cure or paper.
  2. Pattern: a standard pattern, or a custom design with your logo.
  3. Width and roll size that fit your machine.
  4. Your application: lamination, printing, labels or gift wrap.
  5. Quantity you need per order, and how often you will reorder.

Standard pattern or custom design?

Standard patterns are ready to produce and good for decorative use. A custom pattern with your brand name or logo makes the film yours, which helps with brand identity and makes copies easier to spot. If you need a custom pattern, the design starts as a master in an origination lab. Learn more in our guide: What is a hologram master plate?

Made in our own plant in Jaipur

At Kiran Holographics, we make metallized and transparent holographic film, cast and cure film and holographic metallized paper in our own Jaipur plant. See our full wide web holographic film range. Because we also run our own master lab, we can create custom patterns in-house, from master to finished roll.

We have been in the holographic industry since 2002 and supply clients in India and export markets. Tell us your product and application, and we will suggest the right film. Get a quote and we will reply within one working day.

About the author: Rajneesh Sharma is the owner of Kiran Holographics, Jaipur, a security hologram manufacturer since 2002. He leads the work from client designs and origination to exports and plant projects.