Absolutely loved the products! The quality exceeded my expectations and shipping was incredibly fast. Will definitely be ordering again.Sarah Johnson
Description
HYDROCHROMIC FILM REACTS TO WATER
PRODUCT INFORMATION
SFXC Hydrochromic film is a moisture-sensitive material that dramatically reduces in opacity when exposed to water and certain liquids. This change in characteristics is reversible, transitioning from white (when dry) to translucent (when triggered by water). As a result, the film can be used to obscure images, colours or text, which only reveal if the film becomes wet.
APPLICATION
This adhesive-backed film provides ease of application, allowing the hydrochromic effect to be applied to multiple surfaces without conventional spray equipment or paint brushes. To apply the effect, simply remove the adhesive backing liner and apply the hydrochromic film to your chosen surface. The film is flexible and can be cut to size using a craft knife, scissors or a guillotine.
Hydrochromic materials are used in a wide range of applications, including hydrology studies, drinks labels, fashion, art installations, flyers, business cards, wet & reveal stickers, liquid level indicators, moisture detection, wet & win promotions, and mailouts. In addition, hydrochromic film is a smart material, making it a useful demonstration tool for studying smart materials, which are included in the national curriculum.
APPLICATION NOTES
Hydrochromic sheets are white when dry and reveal colour or pattern when wet. When used over very dark background colours, some of the underlying colour may remain visible before the surface becomes wet. For the clearest visual result, lighter background colours are recommended.
As with all surface-applied materials, we recommend testing a small area before full production to ensure the appearance meets your expectations.
SPECIFICATION
Available sizes:
- 150mm × 210mm
- 300mm × 420mm
- Custom sizes available upon request
Chromic Effect: Hydrochromic 1440
Colour change: White (dry) → Clear / Translucent (when wet)
Adhesive: Semi-permanent
Material: Hydrochromic Poly Film
Thickness: 180–200 micron (with backing liner removed)
SHIPPING & DELIVERY
This material is shipped worldwide using our trusted shipping partners. Orders placed before 1 pm are shipped the same day if stock is available. Orders are tracked and carefully packed to ensure they arrive in excellent condition. Biodegradable packaging is used whenever possible.
LEAD TIMES
Sheets are despatched within 2–3 working days unless the item is out of stock, in which case you will be offered the opportunity to place a preorder. This product is mostly made to order — please contact us for current lead times. Shipping times apply.
IMPORTANT
Materials must be thoroughly tested before application to ensure suitability. Please read the TDS and MSDS carefully before use. Our product descriptions are intended only as a guide. The adhesive sheet may be removed once applied, but removal is likely to permanently damage the surface to which it is applied or the hydrochromic film itself. Custom orders are non-refundable and non-returnable, so please thoroughly test a single sheet before ordering packs of 5–100 sheets.
We also produce Hydrochromic ink.
Please contact us for bulk or custom orders.

What Our Customers Say
Great customer service and even better products. The team went above and beyond to make sure I was satisfied with my purchase.Mike Chen
I've been shopping here for over a year now and the quality is consistently excellent. Highly recommend to anyone looking for reliable products.Emma Davis
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is SFXC ?
SFXC is a family-owned UK-based business specialising in innovative and creative materials for commercial, domestic, and educational projects. Since launching in 2008, we’ve grown into a trusted brand for special effects and smart materials worldwide.
What makes SFXC different ?
As smart material specialists, we not only source, manufacture, and distribute unique pigments, coatings, and plastics — we also offer expert advice, extensive testing, and a passion for pushing the limits of creativity.
What industries do you work with ?
We work with everyone — from artists and universities to automotive giants, film productions, fashion labels, printers, space exploration, and even the military! If your project needs a creative spark, we’re here to help.
What special effect materials do you offer ?
Our technologies include Liquid Crystal, Thermochromic, Photochromic, Hydrochromic, Glow in the Dark, Fluorescent, Pearlescent, Colour Changing, Holographic, Conductive, Reflective, Scented, Invisible, and Infrared materials. We also offer a range of additives and binder systems.
Do you offer project support ?
Absolutely! Our full Design Service can help with R&D, material sourcing and consultancy, product design and manufacturing, direct marketing, print and design, and installations. We love helping our customers bring their ideas to life.