Abstract: Thermoformable laminate films with a decorative feature include a polymer carrier film, a paint layer and an optional protective clearcoat and the clearcoat and paint layer have a preconfiguration which produces uniform decorative color appearances following deformation of the laminate by a thermoforming process. To accomplish such results, the laminated film has a carrier film prestretched to orient pigment flakes in the paint layer prior to molding, thereby to reduce strain levels required to mold the laminate with an acceptable surface appearance. The process of manufacture includes the steps of painting a polymeric support or carrier film and prestretching the painted carrier film to control the color hue appearance of the laminate as applied to an underlying relatively rigid substrate or body part.

Abstract: A process for thermoforming a decorative glossy film to a relatively rigid substrate includes the steps of: providing a carrier film having a heat absorption limit or a plurality of heat absorption limits above which decorative degradation occurs during direct exposure to heat sources of thermoforming apparatus; thermally protecting the surface of the carrier film with a layer of material with a heat absorption rate which will shield the carrier film against excessive heat buildup while softening the carrier film for drawing against a substrate; drawing the carrier film and the protective layer thereon into bonded engagement with the relatively rigid substrate; and thereafter removing the thermal protection layer without degrading the appearance of the decorative carrier film.