Graphic Overlay

Overlays are a critical interface layer component in touchscreens, and membrane switches, or standalone durable labels providing both protection and a surface for graphic printing to create a functional, user-friendly interface.




Graphic overlays are a vital component of many products. These film sheets are printed with text and designs that serve critical functional and/or aesthetic purposes, such as indicating how to use the product and conveying a brand message. That’s why it is important to design and manufacture them appropriately for their given applications. They are generally placed on the outermost layer of a product, and they can be textured to match or contrast with the surface of the product.

Serving as a user interface

Promoting brand awareness

Increasing product durability

Graphic overlays often serve as the “face” of a product, meaning they are the main component users look at when using it. They are commonly positioned over the product controls, where they provide text or icons that indicate what each control does (e.g., turning the product on or off). The design of a graphic overlay can be enhanced with the integration of backlighting and dead fronting elements. Backlighting illuminates the overlay from behind, making certain functions more visible. Dead fronting hides certain functions until they are relevant (e.g., a check engine light).

Since graphic overlays can be customized with different printed elements, product designers can use them to display the company name and logo and/or other graphics that highlight the brand’s message or aesthetic.

As the topmost layer of a product, graphic overlays need to be durable enough to withstand the operational and environmental conditions of the application in which they will be used. As such, they often demonstrate some degree of resistance to chemicals, ultraviolet radiation (UV), and other damaging compounds and conditions, which helps protect the product from them.


What Are Graphic Overlays?