Animation photo transfer process
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The animation photo transfer process (APT process) was a photographic transfer system that can photographically transfer lines or solid blocks of colors onto acetate sheets (cels). A similar process is used in making the stencils for silk screen printing. The process relies on UV-sensitive inks that cure when exposed to light and stick to the plastic sheet, while the ink in the non-exposed areas is chemically removed from the sheet.
Advantages
[edit]Compared to the earlier xerography process used by Disney, the lines can be controlled better and multiple copies made quickly. The drawings are photographed on high-contrast sheet film, and these negatives are then exposed onto the cels. A line on an animated character can be in color instead of just black. This is known as self-colored lines. (Xerographic lines were rendered in color too, when colored toners became available.)
Examples
[edit]This process was used on Disney's animated features, such as The Black Cauldron, The Great Mouse Detective, Oliver & Company, and The Little Mermaid.