Lamination - Matt Lamination, Gloss Lamination, Silk Lamination
Definition: Lamination is Plastic film in various finishes which is applied to the entire printed sheet to create various effects - high gloss, matt or, more unusually silk effects.
What is it used for? Commonly used for Brochures, Leaflets, Postcards and Wallet folders. A great way to enhance a matt laminated print job is to apply a high gloss Spot Uv Varnish to specific areas (logos or pictures usually).
Matt Lamination
Matt Lamination gives a subtle, tactile, effect that oozes quality. Great for items where image and first impressions mean everything. Whilst forming a protective coating over the print it does not provide the same level of protection as gloss lamination and can be prone to scratching and fingerprints.
Gloss Lamination
Is more high profile, it adds a high gloss sheen, often used on brochure covers, menus, magazine covers or presentation folders. It is definitely the high impact option. Gloss lamination forms a protective coating over the print which makes it suitable for items such as menus etc.
Silk Lamination
Falls as a half way house of gloss and matt lamination -not very popular as it's perhaps too subtle - often it's hard to tell if the printed item has actually been laminated!
At What Point do we do it? Lamination is a print finishing process (after printing).
How do we do it? Using our brand new in October 2009 Auto Bond Laminating Machine. The printed sheet has a roll of lamination film applied to it under heat and high pressure.
More about... One side effect of lamination is that it completely seals in the print, so areas of large solid ink are less liable to cause marking (set-off). This has a side benefit of protecting the print - many menus are gloss laminated so that spillages don't damage the menu.
Ask us about Recyclable Laminates - these allow your printed product to be recycled along with other paper products.
Ecapsulation
Definition: Lamination and Encapsulation are often confused. The correct definition follows. Encapsulation is Plastic film which is applied to both sides of the entire printed sheet to protect and enhance the print. Encapsulation is easily identified as there is usually a clear plastic edge of 2-5mm around the printed product (this has an added benefit of sealing in the printed item) – Encapsulation is often confused with lamination.
What is it used for? Commonly used for Posters, Leaflets, Menus, and Flyers.
At What Point do we do it? Encapsulation is a print finishing process (after printing).
How do we do it? Polyester or polypropylene film of up to 250microns is applied to both surfaces of the printed item to enhance appearance and increase durability. It can be trimmed flush or left with a margin on all sides to give complete protection.
More about... A very positive side effect of encapsulation is that it completely seals in the print, so that it is ideal for the production of Posters, Menus and any other items that need protecting.
Encapulated items can be die cut,drilled, creased and round cornered.