Meet Felix Wijaya, CEO of Chroma Imaging

A few months ago, Felix Wijaya from Chroma Imaging approached us about licensing Design Pool patterns. We were struck right away by Felix’s enthusiasm. He is passionate about the company he co-founded with his wife, and his energy is infectious. Just as Design Pool had to pivot because of everything 2020 threw at us, so did Chroma Imaging. They are eager to expand into new markets and we are excited by all the different printing capabilities available at their facilities. We sat down with Felix Wijaya recently to learn more about him and his company.

Let’s hear about Felix Wijaya & Chroma Imaging.

Can you tell us a little bit about Chroma Imaging?

We founded Chroma Imaging in February 2012. We are located in Herndon, Virginia, and Kissimmee, Florida, and currently have ten employees. 

What types of products can you print on?

We can print on a very wide range of products and materials including foamboard, cardboard, paper, acrylic, PVC, plastic, glass, wood, cork, fabric, wallpaper, vinyl, leather, aluminum, and steel.

What is the most unique item you have printed? 

We printed an acrylic ring box, cake topper, favors, and signage for a family member’s wedding during the COVID-19 pandemic. It was so rewarding to create items that fit with their vision and helped make their day special. It really sparked excitement in all of us to see that our events can go beyond the corporate world and cross over into special occasions.

Can you tell us a little about how COVID-19 changed your business or forced you to pivot?

COVID-19 definitely shook up our target industry, tradeshows, and events. So what did we do? We took a look at our shop and said, “We have all of the machinery and materials to help with this pandemic. Let’s get to work!” We rolled up our sleeves and began producing COVID-19 safety solutions. In making new products, we got our creative juices flowing. We decided to use this time to take a look at ourselves and think about what else we can provide our customers.

We realized that we were capable of so much, but we were not tapping into it. After many meetings and many drafts, we relaunched our website sharing with our customers the vast variety of solutions we can provide. Though the pandemic has been stressful at times and caused many changes to be made, we are seeing the optimistic light ahead. It really gave us the time and push to get out of our comfort zone.

What about the future of printing?

What makes you excited about the future of digital printing technology?

The future of digital print technology is very exciting. Digital printing has really expanded its possibilities from just printing on paper and mounting to printing directly onto multiple surfaces including cardboard, acrylic, metal, and wood. By printing directly, it cuts out additional steps and machinery. This accelerates the turnaround time and cuts the cost for both the manufacturer and the customer. Printers are also getting more technologically advanced, giving more options to the manufacturer. Among these options is greater troubleshooting technology to alert the user of a potential issue before printing even begins. This prevents mistakes and saves on materials, as well as time.

How do you see digital printing changing the interior design industry?

As mentioned previously, the ability to print on a large variety of materials really gives digital print so many possibilities to provide interior designers. It allows designers to truly customize much more than just canvas prints on the wall or fabrics for the curtains. For example, we can print on tiles, room dividers, and wooden wall accents. We can also print custom wall murals that are easily removed when tastes change. The possibilities are endless and will only get better! 

Fun fact about your company?

My wife and I started Chroma Imaging with one printer and one laminator in a storage room at a warehouse.

Special thanks to Felix Wiyaja for taking the time to talk with us about Chroma Imaging.