Carbon fibre vinyl is our best-selling film, and also the one people ask most about: 3D, 5D, forged, gloss, matte? They all imitate carbon fibre, but each in its own way, and they don't look the same on a roof as on an interior trim. Here are the differences, without the jargon.
Classic carbon (2D)
The carbon weave is printed and the film is smooth to the touch. In the gloss version, the pattern sits under a glossy layer that imitates the lacquer of factory parts; in matte and satin, it looks more understated. It follows curves very well with heat. We have it in gloss black, matte black and anthracite, as well as colours such as gold and yellow.
Best for: trims with complex shapes, the interior and details.
3D carbon
Its weave is embossed: run your finger over it and you can feel the pattern. Its finish is more matte and sporty, and it hides small surface imperfections very well. It comes in several colours: blue, red, silver and white.
Best for: wing mirrors, bonnets, spoilers and exterior parts with a racing look. More on 3D carbon fibre vinyl.
5D Premium carbon
This is our top-of-the-range version. The pattern is sharper and covered by a deeper gloss layer that imitates the thick lacquer of a real carbon part: the weave seems to sit "under" the gloss. It's the most realistic and our best seller: Premium gloss black carbon. There's also a matte version, with a very elegant satin finish.
Best for: the roof, the bonnet, the wing mirrors and the interior, when you want a real carbon look.
Forged carbon
It imitates the forged carbon of supercars: instead of a chequered weave, a pattern of irregular veins, like marble. It's the most on-trend option. We have it in black, gold and silver.
Best for: the interior, consoles, wing mirror covers and motorbikes. More on forged carbon vinyl.
Comparison
| Classic | 3D | 5D Premium | Forged | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Look | Printed pattern, smooth | Embossed pattern | Pattern under deep gloss | Irregular veins |
| Realism | Good | Good | The most realistic | Very good |
| Best for | Curved trims | Racing exterior | Roof, bonnet, interior | Interior and motorbikes |
The carbon trick: keep the pattern straight
Whatever carbon you choose, lay the pattern straight with the lines of the part: if it's crooked, it shows straight away. On parts next to each other, such as both wing mirrors or the door trims, cut them all in the same direction from the roll. And when you stretch it with heat, do it evenly: if you stretch one spot too much, the pattern distorts.
All our carbons are on the carbon fibre vinyl page.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between 3D and 5D carbon vinyl?
3D has an embossed weave that you can feel, and a more matte finish. 5D is smooth, with a deep gloss layer that imitates the lacquer of real carbon: it is the most realistic.
Which carbon vinyl is the most realistic?
5D Premium, because its gloss layer imitates the lacquer of a real carbon part. Our Premium gloss black carbon is the best seller in the shop.
What is forged carbon?
A type of carbon fibre with a pattern of irregular veins, like marble, instead of the chequered weave. The vinyl imitates it and it is very popular for interiors and motorbikes.
Which carbon should I choose for the car interior?
5D Premium for maximum realism, forged for an on-trend look and classic carbon for the most curved trims.
