In the printing world, lamination involves attaching a transparent plastic film onto printed material. Typically, this film is applied to both sides of the printed item, completely covering it in plastic. Lamination serves to shield printed pieces from stains, smudges, moisture, wrinkles, tears, and other factors that could damage them over time. Besides protection, lamination also boosts the strength and firmness of the print.
Printing Projects Benefitting from Lamination
Lamination is commonly used in various printing projects that require durability and protection. Here are some examples:
- Restaurant Menus: To withstand frequent handling and spills.
- Price Lists: For durability in retail or business settings.
- Maps: To ensure longevity, especially for outdoor or travel use.
- Educational Materials: Such as classroom posters or flashcards.
- Bookmarks: To prevent wear and tear from repeated use.
- Membership Cards: For longevity and resistance to wear in wallets or purses.
Additionally, lamination is recommended for printed materials used in harsh environments, such as:
- Machinery Warnings and Operating Instructions: To withstand exposure to oil, dirt, and moisture in industrial settings.
- Safety and Emergency Signage: For durability and visibility in all conditions.
- Factory Rules: To ensure longevity in busy manufacturing environments.
- Reusable Tags: For items subjected to frequent handling or exposure.
In particularly damp or oily environments, the lamination film may extend beyond the edge of the printed piece to ensure complete protection and bonding between layers. This helps to keep moisture, oil, and dirt away from the edge of the print, maintaining its integrity over time.
Factors to Keep in Mind When Considering Lamination Options
When considering lamination options, there are several factors to keep in mind:
- Activation Method: Lamination using heat activation is typically preferred because it creates a stronger bond between the printed piece and the laminate.
- Finish: Laminated pieces can have either a glossy or matte finish. Glossy finishes are more common and usually less expensive.
- Corner Options: Laminated pieces can have square or rounded corners, depending on the desired aesthetic.
- Additional Features: Eyelets can be installed in laminated pieces for hanging purposes, such as on hooks, nylon ties, or beaded chains.
- Thickness: Lamination film is measured in mil thicknesses, with one mil equal to .001 inch. For example, a 3 mil lamination film would be .003 inches thick, while a 10 mil film would be .010 inches thick. Thicker films provide more rigidity and durability.
- Material: Consider using a heavy cardstock for printing to ensure rigidity, especially if a thinner laminate film is being applied. This combination can save money while still achieving the desired thickness.
Discuss your preferences and requirements with your printer to determine the most economical and suitable lamination method for your project.
If you have any questions about printing, feel free to reach out to us at 718-928-6888 or submit our quote request form. We’re here to assist you in any way we can.
Take care!
Jeff @ New York Printing Center
