Killer app... Glow-in-the-dark wallpaper

WHAT? A hand-printed wallpaper that forms a traditional damask print in white on black by day, but, as light fades, the silhouettes of cavorting pole dancers printed in fluorescent ink illuminate from the centre of the design.

WHO? Glow Wallpaper was created by Johanna Basford, a former graduate of Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art who specialised in silk screen-printing while studying for her degree in Textile Design. The project was initially funded by NESTA (The National Endowment for Science Technology and the Arts).

WHERE? The paper is designed and printed by Basford in her small screen-printing studio in Dundee, Scotland. Sheets are made to order on a commission-only basis.

HOW? The wallpaper is silk screen-printed on a textile printing table using traditional pigments and a glow-in-the-dark, water-based ink. Basford predominately works in monochromes as she says the simple colour palette emphasises the intricacies of the pattern, without distracting the eye. The work is white on black with fluorescent yellow detail. As this is a two-colour print, two silk screens (91x60cm) are used to create the large repeat drop of the design. The glow effect can be enhanced and prolonged through the use of UV light.

WOW! Glow Wallpaper combines environment-responsive inks with traditional pigments to create an evolving pattern. The delicate undertones are only revealed after dark, evoking a distinct switch in atmosphere from traditional elegance to burlesque rock.

If you’re producing a killer app that’s worthy of being featured on this page, send details of the job to: printing world.editorial@haymarket.com