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Lamination can be used to protect your printed materials and projects from water damage, stains and moisture. Laminated papers will also be cleaner, more vibrant, and more appealing. Although the process of laminating important items is straightforward, there are some things you should know before having your important papers laminated, such as:

The Thickness Of The Laminated Film

There are many thickness options for lamination. The thickness you choose will depend on how rigid you require your document to be. If you are looking to laminate a menu to be used for a long time, you might choose thicker rigid laminate. You may choose a thinner, flexible laminate if you plan to laminate something that must be folded.

Keep in mind that your document will be placed between two laminate sheets. Your printed piece will have twice the thickness of whatever laminate you select.

Gloss Finish or Matte Finish

Laminate can be shiny or matte depending on the finish you choose:

1. A gloss finish will give printed materials a glass-like appearance, enhancing their vibrancy and colours.
2. Matte Finish gives your product a softening appearance and reduces glare. This makes printed materials more readable.

Before you ask for lamination from your printer, make sure you understand what you would like your final product to look like.

Sealed Edge or Flush Edge

You have two options for edges when it comes to laminated pieces. Choosing the right edge can significantly impact your final product's quality, look and feel.

Sealed edges are when the lamination extends beyond the edge of the printed marketing piece. This edge is ideal for Menus and other items that could come in contact with liquids/food, as it prevents debris or fluid from touching the printed item. Flushed edges look more pleasing and can be used when fluids or contaminants are not an issue.

Square Edges or Rounded Edges

Your personal preferences may not dictate the shape of your edges. You may need to use rounded edges for many reasons other than aesthetics.

• The thickness of your laminate. Square edges can be dangerously sharp if your laminate is too thick.
• The user's age. Round edges pose less safety risk, so it is best to use rounded edges for children regardless of thickness.
• The use of the finished product. If the laminated product won’t be handled frequently, for example, if it is used only as a sign, it is fine to leave the edges as they are and not round them.

Minuteman Press Benoni can help you with any questions you may have before you laminate your next printed piece.