Things You Need to Know Before Laminating
Lamination is a way to prolong the life of printed documents and projects. It protects them from moisture, stains, and tears. Laminated papers are also more attractive, vibrant, and cleaner.
This process is simple, but there are still some things you need to know before you laminate any important items:
The Thickness Of The Laminated Film
There are many thicknesses available for laminate. The rigidness of your final product will determine the thickness you choose. You might select thick, rigid laminate if you plan to laminate something for long-term usage, such as signs or menus. A thinner, more flexible laminate may be required if you are planning to laminate something that needs to be folded.
Be aware that your document will be placed between two laminate sheets. This will mean that the printed piece will be twice as thick as the laminate you select.
Gloss or Matte Finish
Laminate is available in a variety of shininess levels. This allows you to select the level of gloss or matte you would like your printed product to be.
- Gloss Finish gives printed materials a glassy finish, increasing the final product's colour and vibrancy.
- Matte Finish gives your final product a more soft, natural appearance, which reduces glare. This makes it easier for you to read printed materials.
Before asking for lamination from a printing company, be sure to know what you want your final product to look like.
Sealed Edge or Flush Edge
You can choose from two types of edges for your laminated pieces. Your finished product's appearance, feel, and quality can be affected by the kind of edge you choose.
- Sealed edges happen when the laminate extends beyond the print marketing piece's edge. This is an excellent option for items like menus or other food-related materials since it keeps fluids and debris from ever touching the printed material.
- Flushed edges are more attractive and are often used when contamination or fluid contact is not an issue.
Square or Rounded Edges
Many factors can affect the shape of your edges, other than your personal preference:
- The thickness of the laminate. Square edges could be dangerously sharp if the laminate is too thick.
- The age of the users. Because rounded edges are less dangerous, it is safer to use them for children.
- The final product. The use of the laminated product will determine whether or not it is necessary to round the edges. For example, if the product is intended to be used as a directional sign, it will seldom be handled. This means that it would be fine to leave the edges as is.
Minuteman Press Boskburg is available to answer any additional questions before you laminate your next printed item.