You’ve probably heard of lamination before, but you may not know why it’s so popular. Laminating is a great way to protect your photos and documents from damage that can be caused by spills or accidents. It also keeps important papers organized for easy access. For these reasons, many people are turning to lamination as their preferred method of document protection. With that in mind, here are some important things to think about when buying laminating supplies.

1. What Type of Laminator Do You Need?

Different laminating supplies are needed for different laminators. That’s why, before buying anything, it’s important to think about the type of laminator you need. If you’re looking for a home machine, there are several excellent options available at reasonable prices. There also are industrial-sized machines that offer high-volume laminating for offices and large workgroups. Professional laminators are typically used in schools, offices, or other venues where multiple or large documents need to be laminated regularly. If you’re not sure what type of machine is best for you, it’s always a good idea to consult with a trusted supplier. The right laminator can be the difference between efficient and easy lamination and wasted time and energy.

2. What Size Laminating Pouches Do You Need?

Larger pouches may be required for larger orders and large documents. But you don’t necessarily need a professional laminator to use them, as many home models accommodate the size as well. When considering what size pouch is right for your needs, it’s important to think about the quantity and size of documents you’ll be laminating.

3. What Type of Lamination Is Best for your Needs?

There are three common types of lamination: hot and cold lamination, roll lamination, and pouch laminators.

Cold lamination is where the protective layer is applied to one side of the document. This method doesn’t use heat to laminate, so it’s perfect for delicate documents like cards and envelopes. If you want just one or two items laminated, that process can be done with a cold laminator.

Hot lamination is where the protective layer is applied to both sides of the document. This type of lamination is typically used on items like photos, posters, and art prints, so you can see why it’s also called two-sided lamination.

Roll laminating is where the protective layer is applied to a roll of material that’s then fed through a machine like a big printer or copier. This type of lamination is typically used for business cards, menus, and other items passed out to customers or clients.

Pouch laminating is where the protective layer is applied to the document after being placed inside a pouch. The pouch can be made from PVC or polyester, and then it’s put through a machine that applies heat and pressure to seal the outer layer around the pouch. This lamination method is typically used for photos, certificates, and other important documents you want to keep safe from damage.

There are many things to think about when buying laminating supplies. Thinking through what you need will help you make the best purchasing decision for you and your business. Don’t hesitate to contact us today for more information about lamination and/or supplies. We’re a full-service supplier that can quickly meet all of your document protection needs.