Film 101: Which Laminating Film is Perfect for Your Project?
Laminating film is a perfect tool for making your items water-resistant. It can also help protect from dust and touch as well. The tricky bit about laminating film is that there are several different types, so choosing the right now may not be so easy. The film also comes in different thicknesses. According to SolveTech Inc, the thickness of lamination film is measured in mils. One mil is equal to 1/1000ths of an inch. So how do you know which one to choose? Let’s look at the different types and their applications.
Glossy Film
This is the gold standard when it comes to laminating film. Glossy film is a perfect option for several applications. You can use it for school projects and proposals and even for menus and ID cards. Glossy laminating films have a clear, vibrant finish that’s shiny and reflective. This allows them to greatly enhance the material encased within. The film is quite affordable and easy to use as well. Glossy film is available in a variety of lengths, widths, and thicknesses.
Matte Film
Unlike glossy film, matte film eliminates glare. Using it will give your projects a more muted appearance. This allows users to view encased documents under any conditions. This makes the matte film perfect for posters, signs, and images that will be displayed under lighting. Matte lamination film is just as durable as glossy. Some roll films are even made with a scuff resistant finish for extra durability . Unfortunately, matte films tend to be a bit more expensive than glossy film due to the extra steps involved in the manufacturing process.
Pressure-Sensitive
This is a type of specialty film that does not require heat to adhere to printed media. Pressure-sensitive film is utilized with cold laminating systems. It’s the perfect option for heat-sensitive inks and substrates. Using wax based ink with a thermal lamination film can cause it to run. Pressure-sensitive film is also good for enhancing the colors of projects. It provides superior protection for encased items in both outdoor and indoor environments. This type of film is available in different lengths and widths. It also comes in different finishes. For instance, you can get gloss, luster, matte and anti graffiti.
These are some of the laminating films that you can choose from. The decision about which one is perfect for you depends on the kind of inks you are working with, budget, and also durability requirements. Get in touch with us today if you are looking for laminating film for your next project.
