In the exciting world of pinball backglass, there are a variety of vibrant methods for replacements and reproductions, each with its own unique flair!

It's crucial to think about your specific machine, expectations, and budget when selecting the perfect option. This publication is all about empowering the pinball community with knowledge on available replacement types, ensuring you make informed decisions that elevate your shopping experience!

 

 

 

Get ready for a game-changer! This method brings the original art to life from scratch using vector art technology, erasing flaws like granulation and faded colors while preserving incredible detail and sharp lines. With layered artwork, these backglasses are engineered for light, they create graphics pop when lit and elegantly hide when necessary, capturing the stunning depth and vibrancy reminiscent of the silk-screening era but utilizing cutting-edge layered UV  print techniques today.

 

This process requires state-of-the-art layered printing and  ensures a premium backglass that harmonizes beautifully with light, faithfully honoring the original design—bringing the magic of classic machines right back to life. This is a premium option that includes all graphics, is fully functional with the lighting and game play and will last forever. 

This technique is about keeping the original charm of the backglass with minor repairs of damaged areas or scanning and enhancing the original image in areas that need to be repaired.  It is then printed on a label in a single layer front and back and then that print is adhered to the glass and placed in a high degree oven to adhere the printed image to the glass while eliminating any wrinkles or bubbles. 



This is a budget friendly option and can even provide a do it yourself method to replace a backglass. It is what is used in some modern machines because they are cheaper and easier to produce. 

Translites for backglasses are made by printing the backglass 

 artwork onto a transparent film, cutting it to size, and mounting it behind the glass so it’s lit from behind the picture. 

The image is printed on thin translucent material that can be adhered to the glass, making it a convenient DIY project. However, in mind that translites may not capture the dynamic lighting of classic machines, presenting a flatter image that lacks the intricate graphic variations of yesteryear.

 

 

 

With all those methods there are still a couple considerations to ponder. 

No matter which method you choose, determine the printing process of each and if it is a layered process with oblique color capabilities. That is going to make all the difference in the end product. 

 

One challenge in the industry is the transition from silk screening to the inks today, They are thinner and often present problems such as color bleed, hot spot brightness, transparent spots when lit, missing graphics, loss of detail, blurred lines, granulation and dullness of color. 

 

With all of that said, I have personally seen very attractive results undera all of these methods, it will really depend on what the end goal is.